Three top tennis players, Rafael Nadal of Spain, Novak Djokovic of Serbia and Roger Federer of Switzerland will be seen in the first Grand Slam Australian of the year in January next year. All the three players have confirmed their play in this tournament. Djokovic will attempt to win the title for a record eighth time next year. The Australian Open will be held from 20 January to 7 February.
In addition to these three, Dominic Thiem of Canada, Denil Medvedev of Russia, Stephanos Sitsipas of Greece, Alexandre Jewrev, Matteo Bertaini, Roberto Batista Agut, Juan Martin del Potro and Gayle Monfils will also be contesting. At the same time, Ashley Barty, the world's number one player in women, is eyeing seven-time winner American veteran Serena Williams on the 24th Grand Slam title, which will make her match the all-time record of Margaret Court.
Two-time champion Azarenka withdrew from the tournament before the deadline for entries expired on Saturday for unclear reasons. 39-year-old Venus Williams, Serena's elder sister, has also decided to play in the tournament. A total of 104 players have received direct entry into the singles main draw in the men and women category. Eight players are included through the wild card. There will be 16 players who will make their place in the main draw through qualifying which runs from January 8 to 11.
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