Venus Williams is heading back to Melbourne Park after receiving a coveted wildcard, confirming her long-awaited Australian Open return.
The seven-time Grand Slam champion last competed at the tournament in 2021, where she fell in the second round to Italy’s Sara Errani. Yet, despite featuring 21 times, the American icon has never won the title, finishing as runner-up in 2003 and again in 2017 to sister Serena Williams.
“I am excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the summer,” 45-year-old Williams said with enthusiasm.
“I’ve had so many incredible memories there and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a place that has meant so much to my career.”
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Tennis legend chases history as she becomes the oldest woman in Australian Open main draw
Her appearance will be historic, as she will become the oldest woman ever to compete in the tournament’s main draw. She also looks to sharpen up ahead the Slam, after accepting a wildcard into the Hobart International beginning January 12.
There, she will join fellow Grand Slam winners Barbora Krejcikova and Emma Raducanu as she builds momentum.
Tags: Venus Williams, Australian Open, wildcard, Serena Williams.
