The Legendary Williams, 45, Receives Wild Card for First Australian Open in Half a Decade.
Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, commencing on the 18th of January in Melbourne.
A Landmark Comeback to the Australian Courts
Tournament officials confirmed on the weekend that the 45-year-old icon will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the second round before bowing out in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Summer Swing
Venus had previously revealed in November her intention to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, a fortnight before the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is also entered to participate in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the action begins at Melbourne Park.
Her most recent visit in the city was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two occasions, 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 summer season," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m thankful for the chance to go back to a place that has been so significant to my career."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 losses. This year will mark the 22nd time she has appeared in the main draw.
Setting a New Record
The tournament indicated that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to take part in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Latest Life Event
In late December, Williams married Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
