TENNIS

Simona Halep Awarded Wild Card for Australian Open Qualifying After Doping Ban

December, 25, 2024-01:08

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Simona Halep Awarded Wild Card for Australian Open Qualifying After Doping Ban

Two-time Grand Slam champion Simona Halep has received a wild card entry into the qualifying rounds of the 2025 Australian Open. After serving a four-year ban for a doping violation, which was reduced to nine months on appeal, Halep made her return to tennis in March 2024. Despite struggling with injuries, the 33-year-old Romanian is determined to make her mark at the upcoming tournament.

Halep, ranked 877, is unable to earn a direct entry into qualifying but expressed excitement about returning to Melbourne after three years. “The Australian Open has given me some of my best career moments, and I can't wait to play in front of the Aussie fans,” she said.

Meanwhile, British players Dan Evans, Billy Harris, Jan Choinski, Paul Jubb, Harriet Dart, Francesca Jones, Heather Watson, and Lily Miyazaki will also compete in qualifying, aiming for a spot in the main draw. Scotsman Jacob Fearnley, who recently rose to 99th in the rankings, will make his Australian Open debut after benefiting from Austria’s Sebastian Ofner’s withdrawal.