The Legendary Williams, 45, Awarded Wild Card for First Australian Open in Five Years.
A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.
A Landmark Comeback to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials confirmed 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 sibling Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Australian Summer
The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her intention to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, a fortnight before the Melbourne event. Organizers noted that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the action begins at the main venue.
Her most recent visit in the city was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the singles competition on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.
"I’m excited to be back in Australia and eagerly anticipating competing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I’ve had so many incredible moments there, and I’m thankful for the chance to go back to a venue that has been so significant to my professional journey."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the 22nd time she has competed in the primary tournament field.
Setting a Fresh Benchmark
Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to take part in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the record previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the first round at the venue in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams wed Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
