Venus Williams, 45, Awarded Wild Card for First Melbourne Major in Half a Decade.
Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion 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.
A Landmark Return to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials confirmed on Friday 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 overcame her younger sister Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Australian Summer
Venus had previously revealed in November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open noted that Williams is scheduled to participate in Australia's Hobart International a following week, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.
Her most recent visit in the city was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the singles competition on two occasions, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I’m excited to return in Australia and eagerly anticipating competing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to go back to a place that has been so significant to my professional journey."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 losses. This year will represent the 22nd time she has appeared in the primary tournament field.
Establishing a New Record
Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to compete in an Open's singles competition, surpassing the mark formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams wed Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
