Emerson Jones is a chance to make her Billie Jean King Cup debut after being called up to Australia’s squad to face Great Britain.
The 17-year-old, who has risen to a career-high ranking of 136, replaces the injured Maya Joint (back).
Australia faces Great Britain in the qualifying tie in Melbourne on April 10 and 11.
Jones has been named alongside world number 56 Talia Gibson, Kimberley Birrell, Storm Hunter and Ellen Perez.
If Jones makes her debut, she will be among the youngest to do so in the team tournament’s rich history.
“It’s going to be a great experience and really fun,” Jones said.
“They’re all really great girls in the team, and I look up to them a lot.
“I’m excited to train with them and just be in the team with them.”
Australia captain Samantha Stosur said Jones deserved her selection.
“Emerson has been able to test herself against some of the best players in the world at the Australian Open and other big tournaments already this year,” Stosur said.
“This opportunity will certainly make her an even better player and is another step in her very young career.”
Jones claimed the number one ranking on the junior ITF World Tennis Tour in 2024, the first Australian to do so since Jelena Dokic in 1998.
AAP