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

A Landmark Comeback to Melbourne Park

The event organizers announced on Friday 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 early stage before bowing out in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Summer Swing

Venus had earlier stated in November her plans to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament 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, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.

"I’m excited to be back in the country and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a venue that has meant so much to my career."

Statistical Highlights

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

Establishing a New Record

Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to take part in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.

Latest Life Event

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