Australian Open: Venus Williams, 45, receives a wildcard for her first participation in the Melbourne Grand Slam in five years | Tennis news

Venus Williams will return to the Australian Open after receiving a wildcard entry, tournament organizers announced on Friday, marking her first appearance at Melbourne ⁠Park in five years.

The seven-time Grand Slam winner last competed in the tournament in 2021, exiting in the second round to Italian Sara Errani.

Despite 21 previous campaigns, the American has never lifted the trophy, finishing second twice – losing to her sister Serena in the final in 2003 and 2017.

“I’m excited to be back in Australia and can’t wait to compete this summer,” said Williams, 45.

“I had so many incredible memories there and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a place that meant so much to my career.”

Williams will become the “oldest woman to appear” in the main draw of the Australian Open, “surpassing Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she bowed out in the first round in 2015.”

She has also accepted a wildcard into the Hobart International, a warm-up event which begins on January 12, where she will join other major winners Barbora Krejcikova and Emma Raducanu.

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