🔗 Share this article

Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.

Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park

The event organizers announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will make a return at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the second round before bowing out in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Australian Summer

The tennis star had earlier stated in November her plans to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, a fortnight prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open noted that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a following week, just before the start of play at Melbourne Park.

Her most recent visit in the city was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two occasions, falling short against Serena in the finals 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’ve had so many incredible memories there, and I’m thankful for the chance to return to a venue that has been so significant to my professional journey."

By the Numbers

Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will mark the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the main draw.

Establishing a Fresh Benchmark

The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to compete in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the record previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Personal Milestone

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