Chinese Grand Slam champion Li Na has been named as Friend of the Australian Open and is set to return to Melbourne for the tournament in January, after recently announcing her retirement from tennis.

Na commented 'I'm so happy to be named as a Friend of the Australian Open. I love coming to Melbourne and it has always been my favourite tournament. I'm so happy to be helping my country experience the Australian Open and want to share my experiences with everyone'. Rafael Nadal was also recently announced as a Friend of the Australian Open.