🔗 Share this article The Legendary Williams, Receives Wild Card for Her Initial Australian Open in Five Years. Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, commencing on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne. A Landmark Comeback to the Australian Courts The event organizers confirmed on Friday that the forty-five-year-old legend will make a return at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her debut. Back in 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 The tennis star had earlier stated in the month of November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, two weeks before the Australian Open. Organizers noted that Williams is also entered to participate in Hobart, Australia a following week, just before the action begins at the main venue. Her last appearance in the city was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017. "I’m excited to be back in the country and looking forward to playing during the summer season," Venus said. "I’ve had so many incredible moments there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a venue that has meant so much to my career." By the Numbers Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will mark the 22nd time she has appeared in the main draw. Setting a New Record Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to compete in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing 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 married Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.