Simona Halep practicing at the Hong Kong Open in October this year. Simona Halep practicing at the Hong Kong Open in October this year.

Simona Halep will not feature at the Australian Open due to injury. (More Tennis News)falcon play

The former world number one received a wildcard for qualifying from the tournament's organisers last week but encountered a problem during the World Tennis League exhibition in Abu Dhabi.

Known as 'The Wall' for his impeccable skills in front of the goalpost, Sreejesh was instrumental in guiding the team through remarkable successes, including two Asian Games gold medals, and two Champions Trophy silver medals.

Japan struggled in the first quarter as Pakistan Ammad Butt's team dominated and ended the first quarter with a lead. Then they went on to double the lead in the second quarter.

Halep was given a four-year doping ban but it was reduced to nine months last year, with the Romanian having always protested her innocence.

"After playing in Abu Dhabi, unfortunately I felt pain in my knee and shoulder once again. After discussing with my team at length, we agreed it is sensible to delay the start of my season," Halep posted on her Instagram story.

jilislot

Happy Slam @Simona_HalepSee you soon! #AO2025 pic.twitter.com/1xEibhJOCX

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) December 18, 2024

The former French Open and Wimbledon champion is ranked 877 in the world and last played on the WTA Tour in October.

Halep hopes to make her return at her home event in Cluj in early February.

Qualifying for the Australian Open runs from January 6-9falcon play, with the tournament starting on 12 January.