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

Historic Comeback to the Australian Courts

Tournament officials confirmed on Friday that the 45-year-old legend will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the early stage before exiting in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Australian Summer

The tennis star had earlier stated in November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, two weeks before the Australian Open. Organizers noted that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the singles competition on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.

"I am thrilled to be back in the country and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I’ve had so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a venue that has been so significant to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 defeats. This year will mark the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a New Record

Officials indicated that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to compete in an Open's main draw, surpassing the record previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Personal Milestone

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