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Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the Australian Open, which kicks off on the 18th of January in Melbourne.

A Landmark Comeback to the Australian Courts

Tournament officials confirmed on the weekend that the 45-year-old legend will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the early stage before exiting in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Summer Swing

Venus had earlier stated in the month of November her plans to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. Organizers noted that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, just before the start of play at Melbourne Park.

Her last appearance in the city was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the singles competition on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.

"I’m excited to return in the country and eagerly anticipating competing during the summer season," Venus said. "I have experienced so many incredible memories there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a place that has been so significant to my professional journey."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a New Record

The tournament indicated that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to take part in an Open's singles competition, surpassing the record previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Recent Personal Milestone

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