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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, which kicks off on the 18th of January in Melbourne.

Historic Return to Melbourne Park

The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will make a return at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Australian Summer

The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her intention to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, two weeks prior to the Australian Open. Organizers noted that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a following week, immediately prior to the start of play at the main venue.

Her most recent visit in the city was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.

"I’m excited to return in the country and eagerly anticipating playing during the summer season," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to go back to a place that has meant so much to my professional journey."

Statistical Highlights

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will mark the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the main draw.

Setting a Fresh Benchmark

The tournament indicated that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, surpassing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Life Event

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