Former champion Caroline Wozniacki is among the first recipients of wildcards into next month’s Australian Open in Melbourne.
Key points:
- Wozniacki last played the Australian Open in 2020
- She retired and gave birth to two children since her most recent appearance at Melbourne Park
- Wozniacki made her comeback to professional tennis earlier this year
Tennis Australia has revealed the first six wildcards for the season’s opening major, with 2018 Melbourne Park women’s winner and ex-number one Wozniacki top of the list.
After retiring following the 2020 Australian Open, Wozniacki had two children before announcing her comeback to tennis in June.
The Dane enjoyed almost immediate success by reaching the fourth round of the US Open and was stopped only by eventual champion Coco Gauff to prove she remained a force at the majors even at 33.
“I have so many wonderful memories of Melbourne, and of course winning the Australian Open is an all-time career highlight,” Wozniacki said of her impending return to Melbourne.
“Coming back to my favourite slam as a new mum — and bringing my two kids — will be a huge thrill. The whole family is so excited.
“I’m truly grateful to everyone for the wildcard and having the opportunity to compete again at the AO in January.”
Australians Kimberly Birrell, James Duckworth, Olivia Gadecki, Taylah Preston, Adam Walton and Marc Polmans have also been granted wildcards.
The 2024 Australian Open will feature a Sunday start for the first time, getting underway on January 14.
AAP