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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 January 18 in the city of Melbourne.

Historic Return to the Australian Courts

The event organizers announced on Friday that the 45-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

The tennis star had earlier stated in November her plans to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, two weeks before the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, just before the action begins at Melbourne Park.

Her most recent visit in the city 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 as well as 2017.

"I’m excited to be back in Australia and eagerly anticipating competing during the Australian summer," Williams said. "I’ve had so many incredible moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance to go back to a place that has been so significant to my professional journey."

Statistical Highlights

Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will mark the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the main draw.

Establishing a New Record

Officials indicated that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open main draw, eclipsing the record previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.

Latest Life Event

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