Former world number one Victoria Azarenka awarded wildcard for 2018 Australian Open
The 28-year-old missed this year's US Open and Belarus' Fed Cup final due to an ongoing child custody battle, and has not played since Wimbledon
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Former world number one Victoria Azarenka has been awarded a wildcard for the Australian Open.
The 28-year-old missed this year's US Open and Belarus' Fed Cup final due to an ongoing child custody battle, and has not played since Wimbledon.
She previously told her fans she was not permitted to take her 11-month-old son, Leo, out of California.
But the two-time Australian Open champion has said she will be returning to the court in Melbourne in January, with the tournament organisers promising to do all they can to ensure she is able to compete.
Tournament director Craig Tiley said: "Vika's current situation is obviously very difficult for her and we have reached out to offer any support we can.
"As a two-time Australian Open champion we've awarded her a wildcard and look forward to seeing her back on court."
Azarenka added: "I'm so excited about coming back to Melbourne for the Australian Open - it's my favourite tournament.
"I've won there twice and always feel so comfortable on court and the city is great.
"It's been a tough year and being able to come back to the AO will be a really positive way to start 2018."
The Belarusian, who has won 20 WTA singles titles, is currently ranked 210 in the world.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments