The anticipation for the 2024 Australian Open has heightened with Rafael Nadal and Naomi Osaka confirming their returns to the Grand Slam stage, while the notable absence of Nick Kyrgios and Emma Raducanu marks the entry list.

Australian maverick Nick Kyrgios, recovering from knee and wrist injuries, remains uncertain for the tournament despite expectations voiced by Australian Open boss Craig Tiley. Kyrgios, once ranked world number 13, underwent knee surgery earlier in the year and later endured a ligament tear in his wrist, impeding his comeback plans. Witness the best tennis game ever with attractive betting odds from Nextbet. 

Meanwhile, former US Open champion Emma Raducanu’s absence from the automatic entry list raises questions about her participation. The 21-year-old Briton, lauded for her triumph at the US Open as a qualifier, has been sidelined since April due to wrist and ankle surgeries. Despite her intentions to return at the start of 2024, Raducanu, with a protected ranking of 103, faces the challenge of entering the tournament through qualifying rounds or seeking a wildcard entry.

Caroline Wozniacki, the 2018 Australian Open victor, secured a wildcard, a privilege often granted to Australians, raising speculation about Raducanu’s prospects.

Contrastingly, the excitement mounts as Rafael Nadal and Naomi Osaka gear up for their Grand Slam returns. Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, sustained injuries that sidelined him since the previous Australian Open. With a protected ranking of nine, his entry promises a thrilling comeback.

Japanese star Naomi Osaka, juggling motherhood and her mental health, has a special ranking of 46, courtesy of the Women’s Tennis Association’s policy for players returning from pregnancy leave. Her return to the courts after giving birth in July and struggling with mental health issues since September 2022 elevates the anticipation surrounding her comeback at the Australian Open.

The 2024 Australian Open, scheduled from January 14-28, features Aryna Sabalenka and Novak Djokovic defending their women’s and men’s titles, respectively. With star comebacks and notable absences, the tournament promises an intriguing display of tennis prowess and potential surprises. Get the latest updates from the world of tennis only on Nextbet Sports.