🔗 Share this article The Legendary Williams, 45, Awarded Wild Card for First Melbourne Major in Five Years. Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on January 18 in the city of Melbourne. Historic Return to the Australian Courts Tournament officials announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will make a return at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the early stage before exiting in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport. Gearing Up for the Australian Summer The tennis star had earlier stated in the month of November her plans to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at the main venue. Her last appearance in Melbourne was in 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 as well as 2017. "I’m excited to be back in the country and looking forward to competing during the summer season," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a venue that has been so significant to my professional journey." By the Numbers Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will mark the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field. Establishing a New Record Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to compete in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the mark previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015. Latest Personal Milestone In the final days of December, Williams married Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.