Venus Williams, Awarded Wild Card for First Melbourne Major in Five Years.
Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park
The event organizers confirmed on Friday that the forty-five-year-old icon will make a return at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the second round before exiting in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Australian Summer
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 Melbourne event. Organizers noted that Williams is also entered to participate in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the start of play at the main venue.
Her last appearance in the city was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up 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 the country and looking forward to competing during the summer season," Williams stated. "I’ve had so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a place that has meant so much to my professional journey."
By the Numbers
Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 defeats. This year will represent the 22nd time she has competed in the main draw.
Establishing a New Record
The tournament indicated that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the mark previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In late December, Williams wed Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
