Venus Williams, Receives Special Entry for First Australian Open in Half a Decade.
Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 18 in Melbourne.
A Landmark Return to the Australian Courts
Tournament officials confirmed on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will make a return at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the second round before exiting in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Australian Summer
Venus had previously revealed in November her plans to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. Organizers noted that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.
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 separate instances, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in the country and eagerly anticipating competing during the summer season," Venus stated. "I’ve had so many incredible moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return 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 wins and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will mark the 22nd time she has appeared in the primary tournament field.
Setting a New Record
The tournament indicated that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to take part in an Open's main draw, surpassing the record previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams wed Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
