🔗 Share this article Venus Williams, Awarded Wild Card for First Melbourne Major in Half a Decade. 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 the city of Melbourne. A Landmark Return to Melbourne Park The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the 45-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the early stage before exiting in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport. Gearing Up for the Summer Swing Venus had previously revealed in November her intention to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, two weeks before the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the start of play at Melbourne Park. Her last appearance in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the singles competition on two occasions, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017. "I am thrilled to be back in the country and eagerly anticipating playing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many incredible memories there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a venue that has been so significant 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 represent the 22nd time she has competed in the primary tournament field. Establishing a Fresh Benchmark Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Open's singles competition, surpassing the record previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015. Recent Life Event In the final days of December, Williams wed Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.