🔗 Share this article Venus Williams, Awarded Wild Card for First Australian Open in Half a Decade. Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on the 18th of January in Melbourne. Historic Comeback to the Australian Courts Tournament officials confirmed on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old legend will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the second round before exiting in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport. Preparing for the Summer Swing The tennis star had earlier stated in November her intention to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight before the Melbourne event. The Australian Open noted that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a following week, immediately prior to the start of play at the main venue. Her last appearance in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017. "I am thrilled to return in Australia and eagerly anticipating playing during the summer season," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many incredible moments there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to return to a venue that has meant so much to my professional journey." By the Numbers Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will mark the 22nd time she has competed in the primary tournament field. Setting a Fresh Benchmark Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the record previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015. Latest Life Event In the final days of December, Williams married Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.