The Australian Open wildcard spots have been finalized, with Wawrinka embarking on his twentieth and final campaign!

With the Australian Open drawing near, the distribution of wildcards for both men's and women's singles has at last been confirmed. The last three wildcards for the men's singles were recently handed out; let's check who got the final lucky spots.

In the previous wildcard allocations for the women's players, the headline was naturally the inclusion of former champion Serena Williams, while the majority of the rest were local athletes.

On the men's side, our players Bu Yunchaokete, along with local competitors Dakvors and Tokihiro, were unsurprisingly given wildcards. Meanwhile, Kipson (USA) and Jacque (France) received wildcards as part of the Grand Slam reciprocal agreement, awarded by the Australian Open organizers to players from the other two Grand Slam venues besides Wimbledon.

Among the remaining three men's singles wildcards, Thompson and O'Connell's inclusion was also expected. Thompson has previously won a tour title in recent seasons; if not for injuries, his career trajectory would likely have been upward. He once ranked inside the top 30 but currently holds a less favorable position.

Similarly, O'Connell was ranked in the 60s around this time last year but has since fallen outside the top 100, lagging behind compatriots like Deminal.

Just as Wawrinka was performing impressively at the United Cup, discussions about whether this former champion would receive a wildcard began to circulate on social media.

Indeed, with Wawrinka announcing his retirement after this season, it would be truly unfortunate if he did not have the chance to play his final match at the Grand Slam where he once fulfilled his dreams.

Coincidentally, another local favorite, Kyrgios, after competing in Brisbane, realized that his current form and fitness were not yet suited for the Grand Slam's best-of-five format. After negotiating with the Australian Open committee, he decided to withdraw from the singles event this year and focus on doubles instead. This decision eased the pressure on the limited wildcard spots.

Historically, Kyrgios has tasted success in Australian Open doubles, having won the title alongside Kokkinakis, marking a moment of great triumph for him.

Congratulations to Wawrinka, who is about to embark on his twentieth Australian Open journey with a wildcard in hand! Melbourne holds special significance for him. In 2013, he pushed defending champion Djokovic to a final-set showdown. Although he lost, that match gave him hope of defeating top players deep in tournaments and eventually claiming titles.

Everything fell into place! Unexpectedly, the dream came true so quickly. The following year's Australian Open saw Wawrinka realize that dream. A late bloomer, he won Grand Slam titles in three consecutive years, each different. Now, as he prepares for his final dance here, how will he perform? And who will his opponents be? (Coming soon)Source: Tennis Home Author: Luo Cheng Qiye