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

A Landmark Return to the Australian Courts

Tournament officials announced on Friday that the forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the second round before bowing out in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Australian Summer

Venus had previously revealed in the month of November her plans to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, two weeks before the Australian Open. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, just before the start of play at the main venue.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two occasions, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.

"I’m excited to return in Australia and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I’ve had so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to go back to a venue that has been so significant to my professional journey."

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 22nd time she has appeared in the main draw.

Establishing a Fresh Benchmark

Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, surpassing the mark 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 the final days of December, Williams married Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.