Venus Williams, 45, Receives Special Entry for First Melbourne Major in Five Years.
Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.
Historic Return to the Australian Courts
Tournament officials confirmed on Friday that the forty-five-year-old legend will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Australian Summer
Venus had earlier stated in November her plans to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a following week, immediately prior to the action begins at the main venue.
Her most recent visit in the city was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up 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 summer season," Venus stated. "I’ve had so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance to go back to a place that has been so significant to my career."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will mark the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.
Setting a New Record
The tournament indicated that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to compete in an Australian Open main draw, eclipsing the mark previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated 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 Florida's Palm Beach.
