Venus Williams is set to make a historic return to the Australian Open, five years after her last appearance at the tournament. At 45, she will become the oldest woman to compete in the main draw, surpassing the record held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she played in 2010.
Williams’ participation in the Australian Open was hinted at in November, when she announced she would play in Auckland, New Zealand, just ahead of the tournament. She received a wild card entry for the Auckland event, paving the way for her return to Melbourne Park.
The Australian Open will mark a significant milestone in Williams’ career, which spans over two decades. She first competed in the tournament in 1998, beating her younger sister Serena in the second round before losing to Lindsay Davenport in the quarterfinals. This year’s event will take place from January 18th, with Williams aiming to make a strong comeback.
The tennis world will be watching as Williams takes to the court, 28 years after her debut at the Australian Open. Her return is a testament to her dedication and perseverance, and fans will be eager to see how she fares against the current crop of players. With her wealth of experience and skill, Williams is likely to be a formidable opponent, and her participation is expected to add an exciting dimension to the tournament.
As the Australian Open approaches, attention will focus on Williams’ preparations and her chances of success. The tournament will provide a platform for her to showcase her talent and compete against the best players in the world. With her historic return, Williams is set to inspire a new generation of tennis players and fans, and her participation will undoubtedly be a highlight of the event. The Australian Open will commence on January 18th, and all eyes will be on Melbourne as the tennis world gathers for one of the most highly anticipated events in the sport.