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Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.

A Landmark Comeback to the Australian Courts

The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will make a return at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the second round before bowing out in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Australian Summer

The tennis star had previously revealed in November her intention to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, a fortnight prior to the Melbourne event. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a following week, just before the action begins at the main venue.

Her most recent visit in the city 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 championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I am thrilled to be back in Australia and eagerly anticipating competing during the Australian summer," Venus said. "I’ve had so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance to go back to a venue that has meant so much to my professional journey."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will mark the 22nd time she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a Fresh Benchmark

Officials indicated that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, surpassing the mark previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.

Latest Life Event

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