Australian Open 2019: 4 Asian players to watch out for

A few years ago, the Australian Open renamed itself to "the Grand Slam of the Asia Pacific". And in recent times, the Happy Slam has garnered a lot of attention from the Asia Pacific - in terms of both spectators and players.

Tennis didn't kick off as a popular sport in Asia for a long time. Some argued that learning tennis is a costly affair, while others cited the unsuitable physique of Asians for the game. Another common stance was that Asians subscribed to team sports more than individualistic ones.

While that last bit may seem true, we must then ask ourselves: if Asians say yes to badminton, why not tennis?

But 2018 was a turning point, with Japan's Naomi Osaka's stunning victory at the US Open going hand in hand with Kei Nishikori's continued qualification to the ATP Finals. That leads Asians to be hopeful about this year; could this Australian Open truly become the "Happy Slam" for Asians?

Let us take a look at 4 players from the continent who could make a big splash at this year's opening Slam:

#4 Wang Qiang

China's brightest ray of hope, Wang displayed her potential with her straight-sets victory over former World No. 1 Venus Williams in the first round of the 2018 French Open. She also emerged victorious in her match against Karolina Pliskova, also a former World No. 1, at the China Open.

Wang won the gold medal at the 2018 Asian Games, and her diligence and calm attitude on the court have earned praise from Chinese spectators across the world. Her brilliant victories at crucial games in the Hong Kong Tennis Open and the 2018 Elite Trophy led her to her highest world ranking of No. 20.

Wang is seeded 21st in this year's line-up for the women's singles tournament. Could she be the next Li Na? Only time will tell.

#3 Hyeon Chung

2019 ASB Classic- H. Chung

This South Korean player made his way through to the semi-finals of the Australian Open in 2018 completely unannounced. Leaving the crowd astounded with his style of play, he created history by becoming the first Korean player to reach a Grand Slam semi-final.

Chung was an unseeded player when he was playing against his role model, Novak Djokovic, in the fourth round of last year's Australian Open. With a gripping 3 setter that had 2 tie-breakers, Chung's victory gave everyone an idea about his limitless potential.

#2 Naomi Osaka

2019 Brisbane International - Day 7

With a highest ranking of 4 and the title of defending US Open Champion, Naomi Osaka is the woman to fear at this Slam.

Since the retirement of China's Li Na, Asia had been facing a drought in the world of tennis. But Osaka has put Japan on the map in a big way.

By defeating 23-time major champion Serena Williams, Osaka brought Asia to the forefront of tennis once again. Her aggressive playing style coupled with her fantastic serve makes her a strong challenger in Melbourne as well.

#1 Kei Nishikori

2019 Brisbane International - Kei Nishikori

Undeniably currently Asia's best, Kei Nishikori from Japan continues to remain a fan favourite in this sport. His perseverance and humility are an inspiration to tennis players across the world.

In 2018, Nishikori battled through injuries and made it to the quarterfinals at Wimbledon. He also succeeded in reaching the semi-finals at the US Open in the same year. And he has already had a great start in 2019, claiming the title at the Brisbane International.

A three-time quarter-finalist at the Australian Open and seeded eighth this year, we know for sure that the Japanese has it in him challenge for the big tournaments. With his smooth groundstrokes and consistent baseline play, will he capture the home Slam of his continent?