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Former Grand Slam finalist Mark "Scud" Philippoussis is a confirmed starter at the international men's tournament in Auckland next month.
Heineken Open organisers yesterday confirmed the 30-year-old Philippoussis had been handed a wildcard into the main draw.
The former world No 8, who has won 11 career singles titles, has also been handed a free pass into the Australian Open starting in Melbourne on January 15, two days after the Auckland final.
Philippoussis, now down at No 114, lost the 1998 US Open final to compatriot Pat Rafter, and was beaten in the Wimbledon final of 2003 by world No 1 Roger Federer. One of his better wins this year was over Auckland top seed and world No 7 Tommy Robredo, and he has pocketed US$6.9 million ($10.04 million) in winnings.
Injuries have blunted his career in recent seasons, but he remains a drawcard, partly for his blockbusting game, and partly his off-court status, having dated a string of celebrities such as Paris Hilton.
He will want a strong performance in Auckland as leadup to the first grand slam event of the year.
"It is a rare event to have a top Australian player in New Zealand and quite a coup for the tournament," said tournament director Graham Pearce.
