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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 the city of Melbourne.

A Landmark Return to Melbourne Park

Tournament officials confirmed on Friday that the 45-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the second round before bowing out in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Australian Summer

Venus had earlier stated in November her plans to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Melbourne event. Organizers noted that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the action begins at the main venue.

Her last appearance in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I am thrilled to return in Australia and eagerly anticipating playing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I’ve had so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m thankful for the chance to return to a venue that has meant so much to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 losses. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a Fresh Benchmark

Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Latest Life Event

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