Venus Williams, 45, Awarded Special Entry for First Australian Open in Five Years.

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

A Landmark Comeback to the Australian Courts

The event organizers confirmed on Friday that the forty-five-year-old legend will make a return at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Summer Swing

The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her intention to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a wild card, a fortnight before the Melbourne event. Organizers noted that Williams is also entered to participate in Australia's Hobart International a following week, immediately prior to 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 and 2017.

"I’m excited to return in the country and eagerly anticipating playing during the Australian summer," Williams said. "I’ve had so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to go back to a place that has meant so much to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 defeats. This year will represent the 22nd time she has appeared in the primary tournament field.

Setting a New Record

Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to compete in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.

Latest Personal Milestone

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