The Legendary Williams, 45, Receives Wild Card for Her Initial Melbourne Major in Five Years.

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

A Landmark Comeback to Melbourne Park

Tournament officials announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up 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 prior to the Australian Open. Organizers added that Williams is also entered to participate in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the action begins at Melbourne Park.

Her last appearance in the city was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.

"I am thrilled to return in Australia and looking forward to competing during the summer season," Venus said. "I’ve had so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to go back to a place that has been so significant to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 losses. This year will represent the 22nd time she has competed in the main draw.

Establishing a New Record

Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the oldest woman 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 opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Personal Milestone

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