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Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.

Historic Comeback to the Australian Courts

The event organizers announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the early stage before exiting in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Summer Swing

Venus had previously revealed in the month of November her plans to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Melbourne event. Organizers noted that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the start of play at Melbourne Park.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the singles competition 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 competing during the summer season," Venus said. "I have experienced so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance 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 impressive 54 wins and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will mark the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the main draw.

Setting a New Record

The tournament pointed out that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to compete in an Open's singles competition, surpassing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.

Recent Life Event

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