Venus Williams, a two-time Australian Open singles finalist, will return to Melbourne in January after receiving a wildcard for the competition in 2023.
Since a couple of years ago, the 42-year-old hasn't played much tennis; her most recent singles match occurred at the 2022 US Open, when she also earned a wildcard.
At Flushing Meadows earlier this year, Williams was defeated by Alison van Uytvanck in straight sets. The Czech Republic's Lucie Hradecka and Linda Noskova eliminated the duo, along with sister Serena Williams, in the opening round of the women's doubles competition.
During the 2022 WTA season, Venus Williams only participated in four singles matches in total and was eliminated early from the Citi Open, Canadian Open, and Cincinnati Masters.
The seven-time Grand Slam singles winner, who is currently ranked 1,007 in the world, hasn't hinted at retirement and will play in Australia next year.
“I am excited to return to Melbourne to compete at the Australian Open in January. I’ve been competing in the country for over 20 years, and the Australian community has always supported me wholeheartedly,” the American said.
“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.”
Venus Williams has two Australian Open singles final appearances to her name in 2003 and 2017, losing both of them to sister Serena, whom she won the doubles in 2001, 2003, 2009 and 2010.
The 42-year-old’s most recent singles victory on the WTA Tour came in the first round of Wimbledon in 2021, beating Mihaela Buzarnescu before bowing out to Ons Jabeur.
Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley affirmed that he was “delighted” to welcome Venus Williams back to Melbourne and hailed the American as a “role model” for young tennis hopefuls.
“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. We are delighted to welcome her back to the AO in January,” Tiley added.
As well as her seven Grand Slam singles titles, Venus Williams has won 14 doubles honours alongside Serena Williams, who announced that she would be “evolving away from tennis” after the US Open and has not played since.