SAN FRANCISCO, December 27, (THEWILL) – Former tennis world number one Andy Murray will feature in the first Grand Slam of the 2021 as the Brit has been given a wildcard entry for Open Down Under. With Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic expected to lead the field, a fit Murray adds some level to the competition as he gets back in the Slams.
His last involvement at a tour-level match was a loss to Fernando Verdasco in October in Cologne but he has used the opportunity of featuring at the LTA’s Battle of the Brits exhibition tournament to put in some playing time and get into shape.
Complications from his hip surgery and his apparent loss of form on his return after the COVID-19 hiatus made the 33-year-old miss most of the 2020 season. He suffered a second-round defeat in the US Open before enduring an opening round loss at Roland Garros to Stanislas Wawrinka.
Craig Tiley, Chief Executive Officer of Tennis Australia and Australian Open tournament Director was pleased with the development.
“We welcome Andy back to Melbourne with open arms.
“His retirement was an emotional moment and seeing him come back, having undergone major surgery and built himself back up to get on to the tour again, will be a highlight of AO 2021.”
Murray, currently ranked 122 in the world, is a five-time Australian Open finalist. His first appearance in the final there was also his first Grand Slam final, back in 2010, which is of personal historical significance to the Brit.
However, the last time he was given a wildcard entry was shrouded in controversy. Retired former world number one, the Swede Mats Wilander took a swipe at Murray for taking a wildcard to the French Open. Wilander’s argument is that such opportunities were better distributed to young, up-and-coming players, rather than a player of Murray’s pedigree.
It is unsure what reactions will greet this latest wildcard offer but Wilander has a point as there are a lot of hungry young players who will relish the chance to play at the big stage and prove themselves.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
