Former Grand Slam champions and finalists.Veterans and up-and-comers.
They all make up large parts of the ranks of ATP players without a number next to their name on the draw sheet at this year’s Australian Open. With the year’s first major set to get under way, here’s a look at some of the unseeded players that will be out to make their mark at this year’s tournament. (All photos: Getty Images)
1
Kevin Anderson
With Grand Slam finals reached in 2017 and ’18, much was expected of Anderson in 2019. He started the year off perfectly with the title in Pune, India, but struggled in Melbourne, falling in the second round to Frances Tiafoe. Unable to stay on the court due to injury, the former world No. 5 shut down his season early, with his last tournament coming at Wimbledon. Having undergone knee surgery in September, Anderson made his return to the court this year at the ATP Cup, putting on an impressive performance against Novak Djokovic in his first match back. The South African is in the same portion of the draw as seeded players Taylor Fritz and Dominic Thiem, and could give both of them trouble if he’s in good form.
2
Reilly Opelka