Jelena Dokic has signed on for the Australian Open play-off. The former world No.4 and Wimbledon semifinalist won’t be a direct entrant into the 16-player field and will therefore rely on a wildcard.
All Australian players ranked inside the world’s top 250 will be directly accepted into the main draw of the play-off, while the remaining places will go to wildcards.
Dokic said she was looking forward to the possibility of competing in the play-off.
“I am very happy with my progress. I'm training several times every day and my fitness level has improved substantially,” she said.
“The play-off is a chance to earn a spot in the field for the Australian Open and that is my end goal this summer.
“I am very excited about the summer ahead and looking to play as many matches as I can before the Australian Open. That will include, if I can, trying to play on the Gold Coast and in Hobart.”
Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley said it was great that Dokic was keen to play the event.
“It’s great to know Jelena is eager to get back competing,” he said. “She has been training hard and progressing well.”
“The field is going to include a great mix of players, which will amount to exciting tennis.”
The winner of the play-off is awarded a main draw wildcard into the Australian Open.
Optus Australian Fed Cup captain David Taylor, Davis Cup captain John Fitzgerald. AIS Pro Tour program head coach Brent Larkham and AIS men’s coach Anthony Lane will select the wildcard recipients.
