PARIS: Former world number one Maria Sharapova will open her 2020 campaign in Brisbane after being awarded a wild card by organisers, the five-time major winner announced on Monday.
The 32-year-old Russian hasn´t played since a first round loss to career-long rival Serena Williams at the US Open in August.
"Hi Brisbane, I have missed you so much and I am so excited to start my season at your tournament and in your city," Sharapova said in a video message on her Instagram account.
"I´m looking forward to seeing you all in a couple of days."
Sharapova has slipped to 133 in the world rankings after a 2019 season plagued by a shoulder injury which limited her to just 15 competitive matches.
She won the Brisbane title in 2015.
This year´s tournament in the Australian city gets underway on Monday.
Tennis star extends his unparalleled record of Australian Open titles to 10 with victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas
Star cricketer termed Sania "hope" for women in sports and "inspiration for many" lauding her unbelievable career
Participation in the Quetta exhibition match is mandatory for all players, Najam Sethi says
Pacer confirms he will take over as the largest province's sports minister in "due time"
The cricketer was married in Peshawar but he hosted his valima reception in Karachi
You are the much-needed hope for all the women in sports, says cricket star