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A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on the 18th of January in Melbourne.

A Landmark Comeback to the Australian Courts

The event organizers announced on Friday 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 defeated her younger sister Serena in the early stage before exiting in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

The tennis star had previously revealed in November her intention to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, two weeks before the Melbourne event. Organizers added that Williams is also entered to participate in Australia's Hobart International a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.

Her most recent visit in the city was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I am thrilled to return in Australia and looking forward to playing during the summer season," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many incredible memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a venue that has meant so much to my professional journey."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will represent 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 take part in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Recent Life Event

In the final days of December, Williams married Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.