Venus Williams, 45, Awarded Special Entry for First Melbourne Major in Half a Decade.
Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion 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 Comeback to the Australian Courts
Tournament officials announced on Friday that the forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Australian Summer
Venus had earlier stated in the month of November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, two weeks before the Australian Open. Organizers noted that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a following week, immediately prior to the action begins at the main venue.
Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in Australia and eagerly anticipating playing during the Australian summer," Venus said. "I have experienced so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to go back to a place that has been so significant to my professional journey."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 losses. This year will mark the 22nd time she has appeared in the main draw.
Establishing a New Record
Officials indicated that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to take part in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Latest Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams married Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.