Venus Williams, 45, Awarded Special Entry for Her Initial Australian Open in Five Years.
A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on January 18 in Melbourne.
Historic Return to Melbourne Park
The event organizers confirmed 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. Back in 1998, she overcame her younger sister 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 November her intention to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a wild card, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. Organizers added that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, just before 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 occasions, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I am thrilled to return in Australia and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I’ve had so many incredible moments there, and I’m thankful for the chance to return to a place that has been so significant to my career."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the main draw.
Setting a New Record
The tournament indicated that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open main draw, eclipsing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.
Latest Life Event
In late December, Williams married Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
