Venus Williams, Awarded Special Entry for First Australian Open in Five Years.
Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the Australian Open, commencing on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will make a return at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the second round before bowing out in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Australian Summer
The tennis star had previously revealed in November her plans to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open noted that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a week later, immediately prior to the action begins at Melbourne Park.
Her most recent visit in the city was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the singles competition on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I’m excited to return in the country and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to go back to a venue that has been so significant to my professional journey."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 losses. This year will represent the 22nd time she has appeared in the main draw.
Setting a New Record
The tournament indicated that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to compete in an Australian Open singles competition, surpassing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.
Latest Personal Milestone
In late December, Williams wed Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
