The Legendary Williams, 45, Receives Wild Card for First Melbourne Major in Half a Decade.

A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.

Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park

Tournament officials confirmed on Friday that the 45-year-old legend will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Australian Summer

The tennis star had previously revealed in November her plans to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight before the Australian Open. Organizers noted that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, just before the start of play at the main venue.

Her last appearance in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I am thrilled to be back in the country and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Venus said. "I’ve had so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance to go back to a place that has been so significant to my professional journey."

By the Numbers

Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 defeats. This year will mark the 22nd time she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a New Record

The tournament indicated that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to compete in an Australian Open singles competition, surpassing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Recent Personal Milestone

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