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

A Landmark Comeback to the Australian Courts

The event organizers announced 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. Back in 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

The tennis star had earlier stated in the month of November her intention to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, two weeks before 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 action begins at Melbourne Park.

Her last appearance in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has been a finalist 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 the country and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Venus said. "I have experienced so many incredible memories there, and I’m thankful for the chance to return to a place that has been so significant to my professional journey."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a Fresh Benchmark

Officials indicated that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to take part in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Life Event

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