The Legendary Williams, 45, Awarded Wild Card for Her Initial Australian Open in Five Years.
A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, commencing on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park
The event organizers confirmed on Friday that the forty-five-year-old legend will make a return at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the second round before bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Australian Summer
Venus had previously revealed in the month of November her intention to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. The Australian Open noted that Williams is scheduled to participate in Australia's Hobart International a week later, immediately prior to the action begins 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 Australia and looking forward to competing during the summer season," Venus stated. "I’ve had so many incredible moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a place that has meant so much to my career."
By the Numbers
Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 defeats. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.
Establishing a New Record
The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the record previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Latest Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams wed Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
