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A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.

A Landmark Return to Melbourne Park

Tournament officials announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old legend will make a return at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the second round 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 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 play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a following week, immediately prior to the action begins at the main venue.

Her most recent visit in the city was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.

"I am thrilled to return in Australia and eagerly anticipating competing during the Australian summer," Venus said. "I have experienced so many incredible memories there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to go back to a venue that has meant so much to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the 22nd time she has appeared in the main draw.

Setting a Fresh Benchmark

The tournament indicated that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to compete in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Personal Milestone

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