TA Press Release, August 14, 2019

Samantha Stosur, US Open 2011 champion and Thanasi Kokkinakis have been granted main draw wildcards for the upcoming US Open, starting in New York later this month.

The duo boost Australia’s main draw singles representation at the final Grand Slam of the year to eleven, with 15 Aussies also contesting qualifying.

Stosur, who famously defeated Serena Williams in the 2011 US Open final to claim the Grand Slam singles title, plans to make the most of the wildcard opportunity.

Currently ranked world No.13 in doubles and No.131 in singles, Stosur is looking forward to playing an event where she has achieved some of her best results.

“I’m so excited and grateful to receive this wildcard. It’s a great feeling knowing I can play at the US Open again where I have so many wonderful memories,” Stosur said.

“I guess I have always felt a little confidence boost here since I won. Coming here each year since 2011 always feels that extra bit special. Hopefully I can draw on that and play well and enjoy another good result here. It always feels good to be back in New York.”

Kokkinakis, on the comeback trail after a string of injuries, is also looking forward to playing on the big stage in New York, and returning to the form that took him to a career high of world No.69 in 2015.

His 2019 season started strongly, qualifying for both the Brisbane International and Australian Open, before being derailed by a pectoral injury.

On his return to the tour last month he reached the quarterfinals in Los Cabos and the semis at the ATP Challenger in Winnetka, USA.

“I’m so thankful for the opportunity to play the US Open, and would like to make special mention to Tennis Australia for believing in me,” Kokkinakis said.

“It’s been a difficult six months, after starting the year well in Brisbane and at the AO, it was frustrating to have to take some time out, but my body is finally feeling good, I’m rapt to be back playing and I’m really excited for the opportunity.

“It’s great to be back in New York competing in the main draw and feeling the buzz and energy of the event. I’m hoping this can help set me to finish the year strong.”

The US Open main draw runs from 26 August – 8 September, with qualifying taking place from 19 – 23 August.