MINSK, 8 January (BelTA) - Two-time champion Victoria Azarenka of Belarus will not be competing in next week's Australian Open because of the ongoing custody battle over her son Leo, tournament director Craig Tiley announced.
The Belarusian also accepted a wildcard to last week's ASB Classic in Auckland, but was forced to withdraw. Azarenka was previously awarded a wildcard by the tournament in December. Azarenka's wildcard will now go to Ajla Tomljanovic (world number 108).
The Australian Open will take place in Melbourne Park from 15 to 28 January. Victoria Azarenka won the tournament in 2012 and 2013.