Venus Williams, 45, Awarded Wild Card for First Melbourne Major in Five Years.
A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.
A Landmark Comeback to Melbourne Park
The event organizers confirmed on Friday that the 45-year-old legend will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the second round before bowing out in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Australian Summer
The tennis star had earlier stated in November her plans to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the action begins at the main venue.
Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I’m excited to return in the country and eagerly anticipating playing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many incredible memories there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a venue that has meant so much to my professional journey."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 losses. This year will represent the 22nd time she has competed in the main draw.
Establishing a New Record
The tournament indicated that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to compete in an Australian Open main draw, eclipsing the mark previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.
Latest Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams married Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
