The Legendary Williams, Receives Special Entry for First Australian Open in Half a Decade.
Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.
A Landmark Return to the Australian Courts
Tournament officials announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Summer Swing
Venus had previously revealed in the month of November her intention to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded 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, just before the start of play at the main venue.
Her last appearance in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I’m excited to be back in the country and looking forward to playing during the summer season," Williams said. "I have experienced so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to go back to a venue that has been so significant to my professional journey."
By the Numbers
Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will represent the 22nd time she has competed in the primary tournament field.
Setting a New Record
The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams wed Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
