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A 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 the city of Melbourne.

A Landmark Return to Melbourne Park

The event organizers announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old legend will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the early stage before exiting in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Australian Summer

Venus had earlier stated in the month of November her plans to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. Organizers noted that Williams is also entered to participate in Australia's Hobart International a week later, immediately prior to the action begins at the main venue.

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

"I am thrilled to return in the country and eagerly anticipating competing during the summer season," Venus stated. "I’ve had so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a venue that has been so significant to my professional journey."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will mark the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Setting a Fresh Benchmark

The tournament indicated that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to take part in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Recent Life Event

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