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

A Landmark Comeback to Melbourne Park

The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the 45-year-old legend will make a return at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated 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 earlier stated in the month of November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, a fortnight before the Melbourne event. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, just before the action begins at Melbourne Park.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I am thrilled to return in the country and looking forward to competing during the summer season," Venus said. "I’ve had so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to go back to a venue that has been so significant to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will represent the 22nd time she has competed in the main draw.

Setting a Fresh Benchmark

The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the record previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Personal Milestone

In late December, Williams married Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.