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

A Landmark Return to the Australian Courts

The event organizers announced on the weekend that the 45-year-old icon will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Summer Swing

Venus had earlier stated in the month of November her plans 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 play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a following week, immediately prior to the action begins at the main venue.

Her last appearance in the city was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.

"I am thrilled to be back in the country and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to go back to a venue that has meant so much 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 primary tournament field.

Establishing a New Record

Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to take part in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated 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.