The Legendary Williams, 45, Awarded Special Entry for Her Initial Melbourne Major in Half a Decade.

Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the Australian Open, which kicks off on the 18th of January in Melbourne.

A Landmark Return to the Australian Courts

The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will make a return at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the second round before exiting in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

Venus had previously revealed in the month of November her intention to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, two weeks before the Australian Open. The Australian Open noted that Williams is also entered to participate in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the start of play at the main venue.

Her most recent visit in the city was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two occasions, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I’m excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Venus said. "I have experienced so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m thankful for the chance to return to a venue that has been so significant to my career."

Statistical Highlights

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 defeats. This year will represent the 22nd time she has competed in the main draw.

Setting a Fresh Benchmark

Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to compete in an Open's main draw, surpassing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Latest Life Event

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