There is exciting news for all Australian tennis fans with the former world number 1; Lleyton Hewitt making plans to come out of retirement to play doubles tennis in the 2018 Australian Open. His lucky partner? None other than Sam Groth!

With the Australian Open taking place next month, fans are certainly excited to see Hewitt back on the court for his home tournament. Although officially retiring in 2016, he has since returned to the court twice, in a competitive capacity – during Davis Cup and also at Wimbledon.

Hewitt has assured fans that he will play to the best of his ability during the tournament. Fans are loving the combination between Groth and Hewitt due to their previous success in the Australian Open in 2016. During 2016 at the open, Hewitt and Growth made it to the round of 16.

Groth is also expected to enter the singles draw for the year’s first grand slam; however he will still need to qualify, or gain a wildcard entry. He has got his work cut out for him as he is also playing mixed doubles with US Open winner, Sam Stosur. This is said to be Groth’s last tournament as he is retiring.

One thing is for sure, a lot of preparation is needed to be fit and ready to fight against some other high class players. Hewitt and Groth explain that they have been preparing for the grand slam since November. Will it be enough?

Aussies will be watching on as Hewitt takes to the court with Groth once more. Let’s all hope they make it far into the male’s double draw (and maybe even take out the title – hopefully!).

Tickets have already gone on sale, so if you want to see Hewitt and Groth in action for what looks to be the last time in a grand slam, then be sure to get your tickets quick.

As well as this, there are a lot of other Aussie expecting to make an appearance. Let’s hope our players have a successful grand slam and kick off the year with a bang.