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Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.

Historic Return to Melbourne Park

Tournament officials announced on Friday that the forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the early stage before exiting in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Summer Swing

Venus had previously revealed in the month of November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, two weeks before the Melbourne event. Organizers added that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a following week, just before the start of play at the main venue.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I am thrilled to return in the country and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Williams said. "I’ve had so many incredible moments there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to go back to a venue that has been so significant to my professional journey."

Statistical Highlights

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a New Record

Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to take part in an Australian Open main draw, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Latest Life Event

In the final days of December, Williams wed Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.