Williams on Court mission

SERENA Williams’ quest to equal Margaret Court’s Grand Slam record will continue at the Australian Open in January, when the American will chase an eighth Melbourne Park crown.

The former world No.1 is among the key entries for the January 20-February 2 major, which will be launched today with skyrocketing prizemoney and the imminent presence of the world’s best players.

With prizemoney set to rise again to record levels from $62.5 million, Andy Murray is also set to return to Rod Laver Arena. The Scot has regained fitness after radical hip surgery and will be among a string of major winners to sign on for the first Grand Slam of the season.

With Australia’s charge to be led by world No.1 Ash Barty and Alex de Minaur, Naomi Osaka will seek to defend her singles crown as Novak Djokovic bids for a record eighth men’s title.