Five-time Australian Open runner-up Andy Murray acquired a wild-card entry Thursday for the event’s predominant draw.
Murray final performed at Melbourne Park in 2019, when he made a teary retirement announcement earlier than present process a second hip surgical procedure to increase his profession.
The former top-ranked Murray had additionally accepted a wild-card entry final 12 months however didn’t go after testing constructive for COVID-19 shortly earlier than he was on account of board a constitution flight to Melbourne.
“Andy is renowned for his fighting spirit, passion and love of the game and I’m delighted to welcome him back to Melbourne in January,” Australian Open event director Craig Tiley mentioned.
Five-time finalist @andy_murray is awarded a predominant draw wildcard.
“Andy is renowned for his fighting spirit, passion and love of the game and I’m delighted to welcome him back to Melbourne in January.” – @CraigTiley
We can’t wait to see you at #AO2022, Andy 💪💙#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/pJpBy4qXQT
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) December 23, 2021
The Australian Open begins Jan. 17.
Murray, No. 134 within the ATP rankings, spoke optimistically about going deep in tournaments once more after beating Jannik Sinner to achieve the quarterfinals of the Stockholm Open in November. He had additionally pushed Stefanos Tsitsipas to 5 units in a first-round loss on the U.S. Open in August.
The three-time Grand Slam champion mentioned he’s “really excited” to return to the Australian Open.
“I’ve had some great times in Australia playing in front of the amazing crowds,” the 34-year-old Murray mentioned, “and I can’t wait to step back out on court at Melbourne Park.”
