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A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation 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 grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the second round before bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

The tennis star had previously revealed in November her plans to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open noted that Williams is scheduled to participate in Australia's Hobart International a following week, just before the action begins at Melbourne Park.

Her last appearance in the city was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.

"I am thrilled to return in the country and looking forward to playing during the summer season," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m thankful for the chance to return to a venue that has meant so much to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a New Record

Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Personal Milestone

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