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

A Landmark Return to the Australian Courts

Tournament officials confirmed on Friday that the 45-year-old legend will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Summer Swing

The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her intention to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight before the Melbourne event. The Australian Open noted that Williams is also entered to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, just before the action begins at the main venue.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two occasions, losing to Serena in the finals 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’ve had so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to return to a venue that has meant so much to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 losses. This year will mark the 22nd time she has appeared in the main draw.

Establishing a New Record

Officials indicated that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete 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 opening round at the venue in 2015.

Recent Life Event

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