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A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, which kicks off on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.

Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park

The event organizers confirmed on Friday that the forty-five-year-old legend will make a return at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the second round before bowing out in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Australian Summer

Venus had earlier stated in the month of November her intention to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is also entered to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, just before the action begins at the main venue.

Her last appearance in the city was in 2021, and she has been a finalist 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 Australia 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 meant so much to my professional journey."

By the Numbers

Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the main draw.

Setting a Fresh Benchmark

The tournament indicated that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Recent Life Event

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