These words on Nadal and Kyrgios sound more like optimism than confirmation. They also plan to welcome Osaka, Wozniacki and ... Angelique Kerber back on the women's side.
Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Caroline Wozniacki planned as main returnees in WTA draw at Australian Open
WTAWednesday, 11 October 2023 at 16:00
As was mooted after the US Open, the battle for spots at the Australian Open on the WTA side of the draw in particular will be fierce but amid the news/rumors surrounding Rafael Nadal and Nick Kyrgios, some names have been mooted in terms of returnees.
Three former champions and three returning mothers will likely take top billing in Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Caroline Wozniacki.
Wozniacki of course has already returned and has been back on the tour during 2023, but in a limited run in the States, she decided not to commit to the remainder of the season. The ASB Classic starting on New Year's Day will be the first action the Dane will have in 2024.
Osaka plans to play a fuller schedule in 2024 after spending the last few seasons before becoming a mother playing more part time after ascending to the top of the sport. As a huge figure not only in the tennis world, but also in terms of endorsements off it, she will be a huge story going into the season.
While Kerber has been semi left out of the conversation as the last player out of the trio to win a title and is of course a three time Grand Slam champion. But back working with Torben Beltz, she will also make her return.
Craig Tiley revealed the information at the launch of the Australian Open, with Stephanie Myles relaying that they plan to welcome the trio back on the Women's side. This means wildcards are very much likely. Albeit Kerber and Osaka in particular could enter with protected rankings, likely a route that Emma Raducanu if she returns will utilise.
Venus Williams will also be another obvious choice to be banded around, despite some believing that her time for wildcards is over at the age of 43 despite her status in the game.
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