The Legendary Williams, Awarded Special Entry for First Melbourne Major in Half a Decade.
Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, commencing on the 18th of January in Melbourne.
Historic Return to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials confirmed on the weekend that the 45-year-old icon will make a return at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Australian Summer
The tennis star had earlier stated in November her plans to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. Organizers noted that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a following week, immediately prior to the start of play at the main venue.
Her most recent visit in the city was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in the country and looking forward to playing during the summer season," Williams said. "I’ve had so many incredible moments there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a venue that has been so significant to my career."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will mark the 22nd time she has competed in the primary tournament field.
Setting a Fresh Benchmark
Officials indicated that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to take part in an Open's main draw, surpassing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams married Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
