Tennis: Venus Williams gets wild card for Australian Open

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Venus Williams is taking part in the Australian Open for the 22nd time

Photo: Dubreuil Corinne / abaca / picture alliance

Tennis star Venus Williams receives a wildcard for the Australian Open and is allowed to participate in the first Grand Slam of the year.

This was announced by the organizers of the tournament on Monday.

»The Australian community has always been wholeheartedly supportive.

It's an honor to play for the fans again and I look forward to making more memories from the tournament," Williams said in the statement.

Williams is looking for her form

Having made her debut at the prestigious tournament 25 years ago, this is Williams' 22nd appearance at the Melbourne event.

She reached the final twice, but has not yet won the title.

Williams has not been able to build on previous achievements in recent years.

The seven-time Grand Slam winner is currently outside the top 1000 in the world rankings, Williams has been without a win for six games.

She hasn't played a game since her early exit at this year's US Open.

The Australian Open begins on January 16, 2023.

ast/dpa/sid/Reuters