US tennis great Venus Williams has been handed a wildcard entry to next month’s Australian Open – at the age of 42.
It’s been 25 years since Williams first graced Melbourne Park, with the two-time AO finalist “excited” to be heading back to Australia.
“I’ve been competing in the country for over 20 years now and the Australian community has always supported me wholeheartedly,” she said.
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“It will be an honour to play for the fans again and I’m looking forward to making more memories at the tournament this year.”
Since her 2003 AO final loss to sister Serena, the seven-time grand slam singles champion has progressed past the fourth round just four times in Australia.
Her last appearance at the grand slam in 2021 was a second round exit at the hands of Sara Errani, while she’s been a first round loser in two of her past four attempts at Melbourne Park.
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But together with Serena, Williams has combined to win the women’s title four times – 2001, 2003, 2009 and 2010 – and she also captured the mixed doubles crown in 1998 with Justin Gimelstob.
“Venus is not just an incredible player and fan favourite, she’s a great role model and leader in our sport in so many ways,” Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley said.
“We are delighted to welcome her back to the AO in January.”
Williams played just one grand slam this calendar year, where she was a first round loser at the US Open.
She is yet to progress past a third round clash since 2017 at grand slams.
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Williams becomes the 15th American woman confirmed for Melbourne Park, alongside the likes of Jessica Pegula, Sofia Kenin, Coco Gauff, Madison Keys, Danielle Collins, Amanda Anisimova and Sloane Stephens.
Her sister Serena won’t be taking part in 2023, after retiring from the sport.
Just one Australian woman has been put in the AO main draw list, Ajla Tomljanovic.
