The Legendary Williams, Awarded Special Entry for First Melbourne Major in Five Years.
Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.
Historic Return to the Australian Courts
Tournament officials confirmed on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old legend will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the second round before exiting in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Summer Swing
The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her plans to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, a fortnight before the Australian Open. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled to participate in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the action begins at Melbourne Park.
Her last appearance in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I’m excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to playing during the summer season," Venus said. "I have experienced so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to return to a venue that has meant so much to my career."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 defeats. This year will mark the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the primary tournament field.
Establishing a New Record
The tournament indicated that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to compete in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the mark previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In late December, Williams married Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
