Practice makes perfect for stars at Melbourne Park

The Australian Open is just a week away from sparking into life and the best players from across the globe have arrived in Melbourne to fine tune their games.

World No.6 Elina Svitolina met the 360-strong Australian Open ballkid squad for the traditional welcome ceremony, meeting children from Australia, India, China, Korea and France.

“I was a ballkid for Andy Murray when I was young and I remember being a bit nervous, but very excited and it was so much fun,” said Svitolina. “The AO ballkids do a great job and as players we appreciate the work they do.”

Defending champion Caroline Wozniacki has been firing on all cylinders as a host of other top names have taken to the practice courts.

: Grigor Dimitrov joined seven-time champion Serena Williams for a hit.

: Defending champion Caroline Wozniacki keeps tracks of a forehand on the blue courts at Melbourne Park.

: Andy Murray prepares to strike a serve as the five-time finalist ramped up his preparations.

: Elina Svitolina launches a ball into the air as the ballkids are welcomed onsite at the Australian Open.

: 2017 semi-finalist Grigor Dimtrov guides his trademark backhand over the net.

: Belgian’s finest David Goffin will hope to go beyond the quarter-finals for the first time.

: Serena Williams warmed up for the Australian Open with three singles victories in three matches at the Hopman Cup.

: Kristina Mladenovic is defending champion in the women’s doubles at Melbourne Park.

: World No.6 Elina Svitolina is all smiles whilst meeting the Australian Open ballkids.

: 2008 champion Maria Sharapova has arrived at Melbourne Park to keep her game in gear ahead of the first round next week.