'I love a challenge': Venus Williams unfazed by daunting Australian Open return
Two-time Australian Open finalist Venus Williams has admitted she's virtually freewheeling ahead of her return to Melbourne Park.
Having not played the Australian Open since losing in the second round in 2021, Williams was given a wildcard and will face Serbian Olga Danilovic in the first round.
It's been nearly 30 years since Williams' debut at Melbourne Park as a 17-year-old in 1998.
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Venus Williams speaking to media ahead of the Australian Open. Getty
Speaking to media on Saturday morning, Williams was asked if the incredible success in her career had brought about a shift in her perspective.
She said while she still believed she was the same person, she suggested the inexperience and naivety she carried as a rookie allowed a freedom she might not have had later in her career.
"I had my head on straight (then) – it's still on pretty straight," she said.
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Williams during a practice session. Getty
"It was a beautiful time, because there's so much I didn't know but that's the great thing about not knowing - it lets you have a clean slate.
"There was so much I needed to learn, and then I learned it."
Williams lost both finals – in 2003 and 2017 – to her sister Serena. The latter was the younger sister's final major singles title of her decorated career.
Three decades after her Melbourne debut, Venus returns as a seven-time grand slam winner. She will become the oldest woman ever to play in the Australian Open when she steps onto John Cain Arena on Sunday night.
"That's the thing about sport, you keep stepping up to the line. While there is nothing to prove, it's all about the attitude and the effort," she said.
Despite her age, Williams insists she's up for the challenge.
"This is the greatest place on earth to play," she said.
"I have had amazing memories here. I love challenges, so I'm up for the challenge."
Should she get past Danilovic, she will face Coco Gauff in the second round in what is shaping up as something of a changing of the guard match.
