'Extremely grateful': Popyrin, Preston awarded US Open wildcards

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Aussies Alexei Popyrin and Taylah Preston have been awarded US Open reciprocal wildcards in agreement with Tennis Australia.

Preston, 20, sits one place outside the top 100, but is nonetheless excited to compete on one of tennis' biggest stages.

"I'm extremely grateful to be given the opportunity to compete in the main draw in New York," said Preston, who recently won the WTA 125 Vancouver title against Maddison Inglis in the final.

"It means so much to me – I've put in a lot of hard work with my team, and I can't wait to get out there and compete."

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For Popyrin, it's been a difficult year for the 27-year-old, who has slumped to 128th in the rankings after only winning the Montreal Masters two years ago.

However, a memorable 2024 campaign at Flushing Meadows, which saw him defeat Novak Djokovic and reach the fourth round, likely helped with Tennis Australia's decision.

"I am very grateful for the opportunity to compete in the main draw in one of my favourite tournaments," Popyrin said. "The energy in New York City is incredible, and I look forward to getting out there."

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Popyrin currently sits two places outside the main draw, having been ranked 104th when the US Open entry lists were released on July 20.

If the Sydneysider enters without requiring a wildcard, then the wildcard will be reassigned to another Australian male.

This ensures 13 Aussies will compete in the opening round of the main draw, with 10 Aussies set to take the qualifying field.

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