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Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.

Historic Return to the Australian Courts

Tournament officials announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the second round before bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Australian Summer

Venus had previously revealed in the month of November her plans to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. The Australian Open noted that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a following week, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two occasions, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.

"I am thrilled to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Williams said. "I’ve had so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m thankful for the chance to go back to a venue that has been so significant to my career."

By the Numbers

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

Setting a New Record

The tournament indicated that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to take part in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the mark previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Recent Life Event

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