Kiwi number one tennis player Paige Hourigan has been granted a wildcard spot into the ASB Classic tournament in Auckland.
The 22-year-old reached the doubles final at last year's tournament, losing to Eugenie Bouchard and Sofia Kenin.
Hourigan, the highest-ranked Kiwi in the world at 438th, was granted the second wildcard, Bouchard claiming the first.
Hourigan won an ITF tournament in Mexico and got to the semi-finals of an ITF tournament in Singapore in 2019, the most successful year of her career.
She's relishing the chance to be able to play in front of her home fans again.
"I had an amazing time at the ASB Classic last year and am excited to be back. Can't wait to play in front of New Zealand again."
In July, her father passed away at 52, which had an effect on her year.
"After having a few hiccups this year and some family issues, I'm just happy to be back out there competing and loving tennis again."
Kiwi players Erin Routcliffe and Valentina Ivanov have been given wildcards for the qualifying draw.
