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Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.

Historic Return to Melbourne Park

The event organizers confirmed on Friday that the forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the second round before bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Summer Swing

The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, two weeks prior to the Australian Open. The Australian Open noted that Williams is also entered to participate in Australia's Hobart International a following week, immediately prior to 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 Australia and eagerly anticipating playing during the summer season," Williams said. "I have experienced so many incredible memories there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to return to a place that has meant so much to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 defeats. This year will mark the 22nd time she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a New Record

Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to take part in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the record previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the first round at the venue in 2015.

Recent Personal Milestone

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