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A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.

A Landmark Return to the Australian Courts

The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old legend will make a return at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the early stage before exiting in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Australian Summer

The tennis star had earlier stated in November her plans 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 also entered to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a following week, just before the start of play at the main venue.

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

"I’m excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the summer season," Venus said. "I have experienced so many incredible memories 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 Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will mark the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the primary tournament field.

Setting a Fresh Benchmark

Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to compete in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Personal Milestone

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