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

Historic Return to the Australian Courts

The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will make a return at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the second round 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 intention to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, two weeks prior to the Australian Open. The Australian Open added that Williams is also entered to participate in Australia's Hobart International 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 been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.

"I’m excited to return in Australia and eagerly anticipating competing during the summer season," Venus said. "I have experienced 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."

Statistical Highlights

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 defeats. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the main draw.

Setting a Fresh Benchmark

Officials indicated that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the record previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Life Event

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