Can you tell me how it is decided who wildcards will be issued to in the main draw of a tournament?

Question

Also, how is it decided who will be given a wildcard in the qualifying tournament?

Answer 1

Although wildcards have to be requested by the player receiving, they are given away at the discretion of the tournament directors. Or when it's a big event like a Grand Slam the country's governing tennis association usually makes the call (e.g. USTA).

Since wildcards can go to anyone, regardless of whether it's the main draw or qualies, tournaments usually look to add a player of prestige or local popularity. That's why you'll often see lower ranked local players receive wildcards and also former highly ranked players who didn't directly qualify for the draw. The tournaments will also usually hold onto a couple of wildcards in hope that a higher ranked player will decide at the last minute to play their event.

I've heard of some tournaments swapping wildcards, for example, Australian player Mark Philippoussis received a U.S. Open wildcard last year in exchange for an American player receiving one for the Aussie Open. They'll also use them to give junior players some professional level experience.

Answer 2

The previous answer was perfect. I would only add to that in some cases if you win a tournament such as the under 18s nationals at the zoo(Kalamazoo) you get an entry also if you are a previous champion of the event.