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A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on the 18th of January in Melbourne.

Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park

The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the 45-year-old legend will make a return at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

Venus had earlier stated in the month of November her intention to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a wild card, two weeks before the Australian Open. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at the main venue.

Her last appearance in the city was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two occasions, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I am thrilled to return in Australia and looking forward to competing during the summer season," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many incredible moments there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to go back to a place that has meant so much to my career."

Statistical Highlights

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

Setting a Fresh Benchmark

The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to compete in an Australian Open main draw, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Recent Life Event

In the final days of December, Williams wed Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.