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

Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park

Tournament officials confirmed on the weekend that the 45-year-old legend will make a return at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the second round before exiting in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Australian Summer

Venus had previously revealed in the month of November her plans 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 noted that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the action begins at Melbourne Park.

Her last appearance in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two occasions, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I’m excited to return in Australia and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I’ve had so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to go back to a place that has been so significant to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Setting a Fresh Benchmark

Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to compete in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the record previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.

Latest Life Event

In late December, Williams wed Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.