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

Historic Comeback to the Australian Courts

The event organizers announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old legend will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the second round before exiting in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Australian Summer

Venus had previously revealed in November her plans to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. The Australian Open noted that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a following week, just before the start of play at the main venue.

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

"I am thrilled to return in the country and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Venus said. "I’ve had so many unforgettable moments 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' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a New Record

Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Personal Milestone

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