The Legendary Williams, Awarded Special Entry for First Australian Open in Half a Decade.
A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 18 in Melbourne.
A Landmark Comeback to the Australian Courts
The event organizers announced on the weekend that the 45-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 early stage before exiting in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Australian Summer
The tennis star had earlier stated in the month of November her intention to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, a fortnight prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a following week, just before the start of play at the main venue.
Her most recent visit in the city was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in the country and eagerly anticipating competing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I’ve had so many incredible moments there, and I’m thankful for the chance to go back to a place that has been so significant to my professional journey."
By the Numbers
Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.
Setting a New Record
The tournament indicated that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to take part in an Open's singles competition, surpassing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams wed Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
