New Delhi, Jan. 3 -- Tennis icon Venus Williams is poised to script her name deeper into the record books. The seven-time Grand Slam champion has been awarded a wildcard entry for the 2026 Australian Open, marking her return to Melbourne Park after a five-year absence. Notably, at 45, she will become the oldest woman ever to compete in the main draw of the prestigious tournament, surpassing Japan's Kimiko Date, who played at age 44 in 2015.

The Australian Open announced the news on Friday (January 2), confirming Williams' spot in the event starting January 18. Notably, this will be her 22nd appearance at Melbourne, 28 years after her debut in 1998.

Emerson Jones (AUS)

Zarina Diyas (KAZ)

Elizabeth Mandlik (USA)

Tiantsoa Sarah Rakotoma...