Osaka, Kerber, and Wozniacki Return for 2024 Australian Open

Former Champions Return from Maternity Leave

Naomi Osaka, the 2019 Australian Open winner, and Angelique Kerber, the 2016 titlist, are set to make their comebacks from maternity leave. Osaka, who will begin her comeback in Brisbane, gave birth to her daughter Shai in July. Kerber, on the other hand, will return at the United Cup after giving birth to her daughter Liana in February.

Both former World No.1 players have secured their spots in the main draw using special rankings. Osaka holds the No.46 ranking, while Kerber is ranked No.31. Joining them are Jennifer Brady, Ajla Tomljanovic, Shelby Rogers, Amanda Anisimova, and Caty McNally, who have all earned direct entry into the tournament through their special rankings.

Wild Cards Announced

Four out of the eight wild cards have also been announced, with the highlight being Caroline Wozniacki, the 2018 Australian Open champion. Wozniacki, who began her comeback in August and reached the fourth round of the US Open, has climbed to No.242 in the rankings after just three tournaments.

The remaining three wild cards have been given to local players Kimberly Birrell, Olivia Gadecki, and Taylah Preston, allowing them the opportunity to compete in their home Grand Slam event.

A Strong Field of Former Champions

The 2024 Australian Open will feature a strong lineup of former champions, with a total of six past winners in the main draw. In addition to Osaka, Kerber, and Wozniacki, the field will include 2020 titlist Sofia Kenin, 2012-13 champion Victoria Azarenka, and defending champion Aryna Sabalenka.

Furthermore, the entry list showcases the presence of eight other Grand Slam champions such as World No.1 Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff, Elena Rybakina, Marketa Vondrousova, Barbora Krejcikova, Jelena Ostapenko, Petra Kvitova, and Sloane Stephens.

Notably absent from the entry list are Belinda Bencic, who is pregnant, and Bianca Andreescu, who has been sidelined since August due to a back injury.