Tennis: Michael Venus gets wildcard for ASB Classic

Michael Venus. Photo / Photosport.

Leading New Zealand tennis player Michael Venus could face a busy week at the ASB Classic in Auckland after being given a main draw singles wild card spot.

Ranked 15th in the world in doubles, Venus doesn't have a singles ranking but is rated the premier Kiwi in both formats by tournament director Karl Budge.

The invitation for January's tournament caps a breakthrough year for Venus, who claimed the French Open doubles crown with American partner Ryan Harrison.

The pair went on to reach the semi-finals of the season-ending ATP Finals tournament in London in November.

"I think Mike is New Zealand's best singles player," Budge said.

"He has done an incredible job each time he has played main draw for us in recent years and has earnt the right to have another crack. That, coupled with the unbelievable year he has had made it a pretty simple decision for us."

Venus, 30, will seek his second ASB Classic doubles title, having won alongside Croat Mate Pavic two years ago.

"I love coming home to play, I've had some success in the past and there's no place I'd rather play than in front of my family, friends and the Kiwi fans on centre court," he said.