Venus Williams gains Australian Open wildcard entry, ranked 1007th in the world
Venus Williams has been handed a wildcard entry to next month's Australian Open at Melbourne Park.
The 42-year-old is ranked 1007th on the WTA tour, but is a seven-time grand slam winner and has twice previously reached the singles final of the Australian major.
Next year's event will be the 22nd time Williams has contested the Australian Open, having made her event debut in 1998.
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She reached the final in 2003 and 2017, but has never lifted the prized silverware.
Venus Williams and her sister Serena Williams. Getty
"I am very excited to be returning to Melbourne to compete at the Australian Open in January," Williams said.
"I've been competing in the country for over 20 years now and the Australian community has always supported me wholeheartedly.
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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."
Australian Open boss Craig Tiley is thrilled to welcome back Williams, who missed the 2022 event.
"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," Tiley said.
"We are delighted to welcome her back to the AO in January."
Williams' younger sister Serena announced her retirement from professional tennis following her third-round loss at this year's US Open.
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