🔗 Share this article

A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, which kicks off on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.

Historic Return to the Australian Courts

Tournament officials confirmed on the weekend that the 45-year-old legend will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the second round before exiting in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

Venus had earlier stated in the month of November her intention to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, two weeks prior to the Australian Open. Organizers added that Williams is also entered to participate in Australia's Hobart International a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I am thrilled to be back in the country and eagerly anticipating competing during the summer season," Williams said. "I have experienced so many incredible moments there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to go back to a place that has been so significant to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will mark the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the primary tournament field.

Setting a Fresh Benchmark

The tournament pointed out that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to compete in an Australian Open main draw, eclipsing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Life Event

In late December, Williams wed Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.