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Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the Australian Open, which kicks off on the 18th of January in Melbourne.

A Landmark Comeback to Melbourne Park

The event organizers confirmed on Friday that the 45-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

Venus had earlier stated in the month of November her plans to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, a fortnight before the Melbourne event. Organizers noted that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the action begins at Melbourne Park.

Her last appearance in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I am thrilled to return in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many incredible memories there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a venue that has meant so much to my career."

Statistical Highlights

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

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 was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Latest Life Event

In the final days of December, Williams married Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.