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

Historic Comeback to the Australian Courts

The event organizers confirmed on Friday that the 45-year-old icon will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she defeated 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

Venus had previously revealed in November her plans to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open noted that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the action begins at Melbourne Park.

Her last appearance in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I am thrilled to be back in Australia and eagerly anticipating playing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many incredible moments there, and I’m thankful for the chance to return to a place that has been so significant to my professional journey."

By the Numbers

Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will mark the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the main draw.

Setting a Fresh Benchmark

Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Australian Open singles competition, surpassing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Personal Milestone

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