Melbourne: Serena Williams remains the red-hot favourite for next week’s Australian Open, despite some patchy form in the lead up to her campaign for a 19th career Grand Slam. Rival Maria Sharapova is again expected to be the American’s main challenger, with injuries marring the preparation of other leading hopefuls including Simona Halep, Caroline Wozniacki and Victoria Azarenka.

Serena Williams during a practice session yesterday ahead of the 2015 Australian Open at Melbourne Park yesterday. Pic/Getty Images. Inset: Maria Sharapova.