Philippousis seeking one more chance in tennis

The two-time Grand Slam finalist who once stood inside the Top 10, has been AWOL from the circuit since injuring his knee last January at the Hopman Cup in Perth.

 After more surgery and a recovery period, the 31-year-old applied himself to a ratings-flop American reality TV dating show and an October appearance in a senior event where he was the youngest participant by far.

 The player who many insist has never fulfilled his potential, is struggling with his game. But Philippoussis want to try and put things right by returning to the ATP.

 To that end, the winner of 11 titles has thrown himself on the mercy of Next Generations Hardcourts organisers in hopes of receiving free entry.

 But the jury is still out, given the Scud's patchy track record.

 "Like a lot of Australians, we have been wondering what is going on with Mark Philippoussis," said co-director and former doubles king Mark Woodforde.

 Woody told Australian media: "It's been a long time since he stepped onto the ATP tour. He'll need a stringent fitness regime to get match ready and he's shown something on the seniors tour.

 "But he'll have to play better than that."

   Philippoussis current ranks 1115 on the computer after last playing on January 2 but after applying for injury protection would find himself inside the Top 100 for a few valuable months.

 The question of participation in the Australian Open is hanging huge, with Tennis Australia officials taking a firm line on wildcards. Anyone who wants one will have to take part in December playoffs in Melbourne, an idea which leaves Philippoussis cold.

 Philippoussis has played his home Grand Slam only once in the last three editions, losing in the first round in 2006 to Sebastien Grosjean in straight sets.