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A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the Australian Open, commencing on January 18 in Melbourne.

Historic Return to the Australian Courts

The event organizers announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will make a return at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the second round before bowing out in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Australian Summer

The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her intention to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. Organizers added that Williams is also entered to participate in Hobart, Australia a following week, 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 finished runner-up in the singles competition on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I am thrilled to return in the country and eagerly anticipating competing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to go back to a place that has meant so much to my professional journey."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will represent the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the main draw.

Setting a Fresh Benchmark

Officials indicated that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to compete in an Australian Open main draw, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Latest Life Event

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