• Australian Open

Hewitt awarded Australian Open wildcard

ESPN staff
December 1, 2011
Lleyton Hewitt will make a 16th appearance at the Australian Open © Getty Images
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Former world No.1 Lleyton Hewitt has been handed a wildcard for the Australian Open next month.

The two-time grand slam champion has slipped to No. 188 in the world rankings after a series of injury setbacks over recent seasons. A major hip operation was followed by an ankle problem that saw him sidelined for three months.

Tournament director Craig Tiley admitted it was not a difficult decision to award the home favourite a place in the draw.

"His passion and commitment to the game is second to none. We are delighted to offer him a wildcard for 2012," Tiley said.

"Lleyton has had some bad luck with injury recently which has seen his ranking drop, but he has proved time and time again that he can never be discounted, particularly in a big match."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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