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

Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park

Tournament officials announced on Friday that the forty-five-year-old icon will make a return at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Summer Swing

The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her plans to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, a fortnight before the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.

Her most recent visit in the city was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.

"I am thrilled to be back in the country and eagerly anticipating playing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I’ve had so many incredible moments there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to go back to a place that has been so significant to my professional journey."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will mark the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the main draw.

Establishing a New Record

The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Latest Personal Milestone

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