Venus Williams, Receives Wild Card for First Melbourne Major in Five Years.
Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on January 18 in Melbourne.
Historic Return to the Australian Courts
Tournament officials announced on the weekend that the 45-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the early stage before exiting in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Summer Swing
The tennis star had previously revealed in November her intention to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a wild card, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a following week, immediately prior to the action begins at the main venue.
Her last appearance in the city was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in Australia and eagerly anticipating competing during the Australian summer," Venus said. "I have experienced so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to go back to a place that has been so significant to my career."
By the Numbers
Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the 22nd time she has appeared in the primary tournament field.
Establishing a Fresh Benchmark
Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to compete in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the mark 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 model and actor Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
