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A 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 Melbourne.

Historic Return to Melbourne Park

The event organizers announced on Friday that the forty-five-year-old legend will make a return at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the early stage before exiting in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

The tennis star had earlier stated in the month of November her intention to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, two weeks before the Melbourne event. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled to participate in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the start of play at Melbourne Park.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two occasions, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I am thrilled to return in the country and eagerly anticipating playing during the summer season," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many incredible memories there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a place that has been so significant to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will represent the 22nd time she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Setting a New Record

Officials indicated that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Recent Personal Milestone

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