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Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on January 18 in Melbourne.

A Landmark Comeback to the Australian Courts

The event organizers announced on Friday 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 quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

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 special entry, two weeks before the Australian Open. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a following week, immediately prior to the start of play at the main venue.

Her last appearance in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two occasions, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I’m excited 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 opportunity to go back to a place that has been so significant to my career."

Statistical Highlights

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will mark the 22nd time she has appeared in the main draw.

Establishing a Fresh Benchmark

The tournament indicated that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to compete in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the mark previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Recent Life Event

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