SYDNEY, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- Former World No. 1 Andy Murray was awarded an Australian Open 2021 main draw wildcard, Tennis Australia announced on Monday.
"We welcome Andy back to Melbourne with open arms," Australian Open Tournament Director Craig Tiley said.
"As a five-time finalist, he has been an integral part of so many amazing matches and storylines in the recent history of the Australian Open."
As a three-time Grand Slam Champions and two-time Olympic gold medalist, Murray is ranked fifth all-time in the Open Era for the most singles matches won (48) at the Australian Open. However, he suffered hip injuries, which greatly affected his performances in the recent three Australian Opens.
"His retirement was an emotional moment and seeing him come back, having undergone major surgery and built himself back up to get onto the tour again, will be a highlight of AO 2021," Tiley said.
Murray is one of eight main draw wildcard recipients to be announced on Monday. India's Sumit Nagal and Wang Xiyu of China will also compete in the main draw after being named recipients of the tournament's Asia-Pacific wildcards.