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A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.

A Landmark Comeback to the Australian Courts

The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old legend will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the early stage before exiting in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Australian Summer

The tennis star had earlier stated in November her intention to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, two weeks before the Melbourne event. Organizers 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 most recent visit in the city was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the singles competition on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.

"I’m excited to be back in the country and eagerly anticipating competing during the Australian summer," Williams said. "I’ve had so many incredible memories there, and I’m thankful for the chance to go back to a venue that has meant so much to my professional journey."

Statistical Highlights

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will mark the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a Fresh Benchmark

The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Open's main draw, surpassing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Recent Life Event

In late December, Williams wed Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.