Venus Williams, Receives Wild Card for Her Initial Melbourne Major in Half a Decade.
Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on January 18 in Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park
The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the 45-year-old legend will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. During 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
Venus had earlier stated in November her plans to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, two weeks before the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, just before the start of play at the main venue.
Her last appearance in the city was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I am thrilled to return in the country and eagerly anticipating competing during the summer season," Williams said. "I have experienced so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to return to a place that has been so significant to my career."
By the Numbers
Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 defeats. This year will represent the 22nd time she has competed in the primary tournament field.
Setting a New Record
Officials indicated that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the mark previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Latest Life Event
In late December, Williams wed Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
