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A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, which kicks off on the 18th of January in Melbourne.

A Landmark Comeback to Melbourne Park

The event organizers announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old legend will make a return at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated her sibling 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 earlier stated in the month of November her intention to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a wild card, a fortnight before the Australian Open. The Australian Open added that Williams is also entered to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at the main venue.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.

"I’m excited to return in Australia and looking forward to playing during the summer season," Williams said. "I have experienced so many incredible moments there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to return to a venue that has been so significant to my career."

Statistical Highlights

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the primary tournament field.

Setting a New Record

The tournament indicated that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Recent Personal Milestone

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