Venus Williams will end a 20-year absence from the Sydney International this summer as she warms up to go one better than her 2017 Australian Open final loss to sister Serena.
World No.5 Williams has not played at Homebush since 1998 when she was runner-up to Spain's Arantxa Sanchez-Vicario as a teenager.
"This was one of the earliest tournaments I ever played and has always held a special place in my heart," Williams said.
"The last time I played in the Sydney International I was 18-years-old, so a lot has changed in this time."
The American, now 37 and a seven-time grand slam winner, is coming off a stellar season.
She has achieved her highest ranking since January 2011 after reaching grand slam finals at Wimbledon and in Melbourne, where she was beaten 6-4 6-4 by Serena.
"I have been playing some really great tennis this year and I feel I'm in a strong position, both physically and mentally, in the lead up to Sydney," she said.
"The Australian summer is always a favourite of mine.
"I really love the atmosphere the crowds bring and I'm confident in my preparation over the next few months to put on a good show for the Australian fans."
The Sydney International will be contested from January 7-13.
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