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A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.

Historic Return to Melbourne Park

The event organizers announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the second round before bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Summer Swing

Venus had earlier stated in November her plans to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, a fortnight before the Australian Open. The Australian Open noted that Williams is also entered to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at the main venue.

Her last appearance in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I’m excited to return in Australia and eagerly anticipating playing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I’ve had so many unforgettable 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' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will mark the 22nd time she has competed in the main draw.

Establishing a New Record

The tournament indicated that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to take part in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the record previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Recent Life Event

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