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

Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park

The event organizers confirmed on Friday that the forty-five-year-old legend will grace the courts again 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

Venus had previously revealed in the month of November her intention to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open noted that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a following week, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.

Her last appearance in Melbourne was in the year 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 the country and eagerly anticipating competing during the Australian summer," Williams said. "I’ve had so many incredible memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a venue that has been so significant to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will mark the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the main draw.

Establishing a New Record

The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the record previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Personal Milestone

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