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Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the Australian Open, commencing on the 18th of January in Melbourne.

A Landmark Comeback to the Australian Courts

The event organizers announced on Friday that the forty-five-year-old legend will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the second round before bowing out in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, two weeks prior to the Australian Open. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to participate in Australia's Hobart International a week later, immediately prior to the action begins at Melbourne Park.

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

"I’m excited to return in the country and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I’ve had so many incredible memories there, and I’m thankful for the chance to go back to a place that has meant so much to my professional journey."

By the Numbers

Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 defeats. This year will mark the twenty-second occasion 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 compete in an Open's main draw, surpassing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Recent Life Event

In the final days of December, Williams wed Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.