According to ATP rankings, Mark Philippoussis is currently the 1115th best male tennis player in the world - but Lleyton Hewitt says the Scud has earned a place in the 2008 Australian Open.
Speaking with Alan Jones on Radio 2GB, Hewitt insisted the Scud, a former US Open and Wimbledon finalist, has done enough for Australian tennis to deserve a wildcard entry to the January Grand Slam.
"You have to look at what he's done for Australian tennis in the past and obviously for Davis Cup," said Hewitt, who combined with Philippoussis, Todd Woodbridge and Wayne Arthurs to bring the Davis Cup to Australia in 2003.
"He's on the comeback trail; we don't know how many years he's got left. Hopefully he's body can hold up."
Philippoussis has decided to contest the qualifying rounds for the Australian Open, a decision which will no doubt help his chances of receiving a wildcard entry once his power and drawing ability have been showcased.
But Hewitt says the match experience will be crucial for Philippoussis.
"I think it’s a good idea he's playing the wildcard play-off. Not to try to get the wildcard, but purely for him to get matches under his belt.
"If he can get through, nobody's going to want to play him in the first round of the Aussie Open in his home town.”
Hewitt has embarked on his own comeback trail after an ankle injury sidelined him in early October.
The former World No.1 is set to make his return to the court in the Next Generation Adelaide International from December 31, with his sights firmly set on the Australian Open which starts on January 14.
Hewitt has hired Sydney personal trainer Nathan Martin to improve his fitness, and says he has been working hard on his game with coach Tony Roche.
"I guarantee you one thing, and all my supporters out there, come January, I'll be there fittest I've ever been."
