Storylines abound for the Australian Open

And finally, the wait for professional tennis's first Grand Slam of the year is over, well almost.

In the weeks leading up to the Australian Open (Jan 15-28) in Melbourne, speculation among fans over how many of the top players would make the "Happy Slam" has been rife.

Those hoping for a Serena Williams return were left wanting. Despite being close to full fitness, the seven-time Australian Open women's winner opted to stay home. She had just given birth in September and did not feel "quite ready" to compete at a high level. Joining her on the sidelines is former Australian Open winner Victoria Azarenka - stuck in California over a long-drawn battle over the custody of her son.