Halep finally catches a break with AO qualies wildcard

Simona Halep has finally hit some good luck after being awarded a wild card into Australian Open qualifying next month.

The former world No. 1 and two-time Grand Slam champion received her first favour from a major since coming back after successfully appealing a doping ban.

The 34-year-old Romanian had her original four-year ban from late 2022 reduced to nine months and she returned to the WTA last March.

But entries have been few and far between, with Halep managing only two Tour-level matches in nine months. She played the 2018 Melbourne final, losing to Caroline Wozniacki.

“The thought of returning to Australia after three years is exciting and I’m very grateful to the tournament for this opportunity. I have been working hard to get ready for the 2025 season,” Halep said.

“The Australian Open has provided me with some of the best moments in my career, so I can’t wait to be back in Melbourne and playing in front of the Aussie fans.”

Halep, holder of 24 career titles, was rejected for a Roland Garros wild card entry last spring and did not apply for one at Wimbledon due to a knee injury.