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Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on January 18 in Melbourne.

A Landmark Comeback to Melbourne Park

The event organizers confirmed on Friday that the 45-year-old legend will make a return at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Australian Summer

Venus had previously revealed in November her plans to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, a fortnight prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a following week, just before the start of play at Melbourne Park.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne 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 and 2017.

"I am thrilled to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the summer season," Williams stated. "I’ve had so many incredible memories there, and I’m thankful for the chance to go back to a place that has been so significant to my professional journey."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the main draw.

Setting a Fresh Benchmark

Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Recent Personal Milestone

In late December, Williams wed Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.