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

Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park

The event organizers 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 bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Australian Summer

The tennis star had earlier stated in the month of November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, two weeks before the Melbourne event. The Australian Open noted that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a week later, immediately prior to the action begins at the main venue.

Her last appearance in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I’m excited to return in the country and eagerly anticipating playing during the summer season," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many incredible memories there, and I’m thankful for the chance to go back to a place that has been so significant to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will represent the 22nd time she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a Fresh Benchmark

Officials indicated that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to compete in an Open's singles competition, surpassing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Life Event

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