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A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the Australian Open, which kicks off on the 18th of January in Melbourne.

A Landmark Return to Melbourne Park

Tournament officials announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her intention to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a wild card, two weeks before the Australian Open. Organizers noted that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a following week, immediately prior to the action begins at the main venue.

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 and 2017.

"I am thrilled to be back in Australia and eagerly anticipating competing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many incredible memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to go back to a place that has meant so much to my professional journey."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will mark the 22nd time she has appeared in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a New Record

Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to take part in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the record previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.

Recent Personal Milestone

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