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A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the Australian Open, commencing on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.

A Landmark Return to the Australian Courts

The event organizers announced on Friday that the 45-year-old legend will make a return at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the early stage before exiting in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Summer Swing

The tennis star had previously revealed in November her plans to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, two weeks prior to the Australian Open. Organizers noted that Williams is also entered to participate in Hobart, Australia a following week, immediately prior to the start of play at the main venue.

Her last appearance in the city 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 and 2017.

"I am thrilled to return in the country and eagerly anticipating competing during the summer season," Williams said. "I have experienced so many incredible memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to go back to a venue that has been so significant to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the main draw.

Establishing a New Record

The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Open's main draw, surpassing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Recent Personal Milestone

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