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A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 18 in Melbourne.

A Landmark Return to the Australian Courts

Tournament officials announced on Friday that the 45-year-old legend will make a return at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the second round before bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

The tennis star 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 scheduled to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the action begins at the main venue.

Her last appearance in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I’m excited to be back in the country and looking forward to competing during the summer season," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many incredible moments there, and I’m thankful for the chance to return to a venue that has been so significant to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 defeats. This year will mark the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a New Record

The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to take part in an Open's main draw, surpassing the record previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Recent Personal Milestone

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