Lizette Cabrera one of four to earn wildcards into Australian Open

AUSTRALIAN Lizette Cabrera has snaffled the final women’s singles wildcard for the Australian Open while two-time winner Victoria Azarenka has also been offered a place.

Lizette Cabrera in action against Donna Vekic during the 2017 Australian Open.

BRISBANE’S Lizette Cabrera has snaffled the final women’s singles wildcard for the Australian Open.

Cabrera, 20, joins Victorian trio Destanee Aiava, Jaimee Fourlis and Olivia Rogowska in the 128-player field.

Dual champion Victoria Azarenka is also among the recipients, but there is doubt she will be able to use the discretionary invitation because of a legal battle surrounding the custody of her son.

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The other wildcard entrants are China’s Wang Xinuyu, France’s Jessika Ponchet and American Kristie Ahn.

Cabrera finished the 2017 season in style, reaching the quarter-finals of WTA tournaments in Taipei and Hong Kong, climbing to No.152 in the rankings.

“I’m so excited to get a wildcard into the Australian Open, and I can’t thank Tennis Australia enough for the honour,” Cabrera said.

Lizette Cabrera in action at the Hobart International. Picture: Mathew Farrell

Victoria Azarenka is locked in a legal battle over her son. Picture: Mark Stewart

“I had a taste of what it’s like playing a home grand slam last year, and I can’t wait to get back to the courts at Melbourne Park in a couple of weeks’ time.

“I’m really happy how things are going with my tennis and thought I had a strong finish to the year, and being awarded this wildcard is the prefect way for me to kick start 2018.

“This year I’m looking to play more matches on the WTA Tour, and this wildcard is the perfect opportunity for me to start 2018 with a bang and I’m very grateful again of having the chance to play at the Australian Open.”

Fed Cup captain Alicia Molik said: “Lizette is one of our best prospects as we start the tennis year and she has worked hard to improve and is well deserving of being awarded the wildcard.

“There is something special about playing a home Grand Slam, and I’m excited that Lizette has the chance to give it her all at Melbourne Park.”

Originally published as Lizette Cabrera one of four to earn wildcards into Australian Open