Wawrinka Joins Venus as 2026 Australian Open Wildcards Finalized
Highlights
- Legends Return: Tennis icons Venus Williams and Stan Wawrinka headline the wildcard list, likely making emotional final appearances at Melbourne Park.
- Next-Gen Debut: 17-year-old Australian sensation and former junior world No. 1 Emerson Jones will make her highly anticipated main draw debut.
- Global Mix: The draw features a strong lineup of local favorites like Jordan Thompson, alongside international rising stars such as Bu Yunchaokete (China) and Patrick Kypson (USA).
MELBOURNE, Jan 9, 2026 – The final pieces of the Australian Open 2026 puzzle have fallen into place. Tennis Australia officially confirmed the complete list of wildcard recipients for the main draw today, revealing a lineup that bridges the gap between the sport’s most enduring legends and its brightest future stars.
Headlining the announcement are two names that need no introduction: Venus Williams and Stan Wawrinka. Their inclusion ensures that Melbourne Park will likely witness one final, emotional chapter for two of the game’s greatest icons.
The Last Dance for Legends
At 45 years old, Venus Williams continues to defy time. Her wildcard acceptance marks yet another return to a tournament where she has reached the final twice (2003, 2017). While her ranking no longer guarantees direct entry, her presence remains a massive draw for fans. Tennis Australia’s decision to award her a wildcard is a nod to her immeasurable contribution to the sport.
On the men’s side, 2014 Australian Open champion Stan Wawrinka returns to the scene of his greatest triumph. The Swiss veteran, known for his signature one-handed backhand, has battled through injuries to extend his career. For “Stan the Man,” this wildcard offers a chance to say a proper goodbye to the “Happy Slam” crowds that have adored him for over a decade.
The Rise of Emerson Jones
While the legends look back, Australian tennis eyes the future. The most exciting local story is undoubtedly Emerson Jones. The 17-year-old Gold Coast native, who became the first Australian girl since Jelena Dokic to reach the world No. 1 junior ranking in 2024, will make her highly anticipated main draw debut. Jones has been tipped as the natural successor to Ash Barty, and her transition to the pro tour has been watched closely.
“It’s a dream come true,” Jones said in a statement. “I’ve grown up watching this tournament, and to finally be in the main draw is surreal.”
Jones leads a robust contingent of Aussie women receiving wildcards, including Talia Gibson, Priscilla Hon, Taylah Preston, and the dangerous Tiantsoa Rakotomanga Rajaonah (receiving the French reciprocal wildcard).
Aussie Men and International Flair
The men’s wildcard list is heavy with experienced Australian talent looking to capitalize on home-court advantage. Jordan Thompson, Christopher O’Connell, James Duckworth, and Rinky Hijikata have all secured their spots. For Thompson and O’Connell, the wildcard is a lifeline after ranking fluctuations, ensuring the famously raucous Aussie fans have plenty of locals to cheer on the outside courts.
International relations have also played a key role. Under the reciprocal agreement with the USTA and FFT, the United States and France have nominated their rising talents.
Patrick Kypson (USA) earned his spot after a stellar late-2025 season, clinching the USTA Wild Card Challenge with a string of Challenger titles. He is joined by Elizabeth Mandlik, daughter of four-time major winner Hana Mandlíková, adding a touch of tennis royalty to the American lineup.
From France, Kyrian Jacquet joins the field alongside Rakotomanga Rajaonah, both rewarded for their breakthroughs on the European clay and hard courts over the last 12 months.
Rounding out the men’s list is China’s Bu Yunchaokete. The 23-year-old has been on a meteoric rise, breaking into the top 70 in 2025 and becoming a new face of Chinese men’s tennis. His aggressive baseline game is expected to suit the quick Melbourne courts.
The Stage is Set
With the wildcards now set, the 2026 Australian Open draw looms large. The mix of nostalgic farewells for Williams and Wawrinka, combined with the debut pressure on teenagers like Jones, promises a first week full of compelling narratives.
Action at Melbourne Park begins next week, with the wildcard recipients looking to justify their selection and perhaps cause an early-round upset that will be remembered for years to come.
The Complete 2026 Wildcard Class
The full list of wildcards features a diverse mix of future stars, current grinders, and all-time greats.
Men’s Singles Wildcards:
- Stan Wawrinka (SUI) – 2014 Champion
- Jordan Thompson (AUS)
- Christopher O’Connell (AUS)
- James Duckworth (AUS)
- Rinky Hijikata (AUS)
- Bu Yunchaokete (CHN) – Asia-Pacific Wildcard
- Kyrian Jacquet (FRA) – Reciprocal Wildcard
- Patrick Kypson (USA) – USTA Wildcard Challenge Winner
Women’s Singles Wildcards:
- Venus Williams (USA) – Seven-time Grand Slam Champion
- Zarina Diyas (KAZ) – Asia-Pacific Wildcard
- Elizabeth Mandlik (USA) – USTA Wildcard Challenge Winner
- Tiantsoa Rakotomanga Rajaonah (FRA) – Reciprocal Wildcard
- Priscilla Hon (AUS)
- Talia Gibson (AUS)
- Taylah Preston (AUS)
- Emerson Jones (AUS)
