The qualifiers, which start today, will be Hives' first professional tournament in over two years after overcoming debilitating bouts of illness.

The 25-year-old had hoped to compete in last week's Melbourne Summer Set but had to postpone her return after rolling her ankle in a training session.

Hives told The Courier she was relishing being back in the elite environment.

"I've been really enjoying hitting with the girls again and just getting back into the swing of things," she said.

"It's great to see everyone again, and it's a good environment to be in. I've been doing my own thing for so long, so it's good to be back."

Hives made a breakthrough appearance at the Australian Open in 2019, managing a round one victory against American Bethanie Mattek-Sands.

A maiden WTA doubles title followed in April alongside first-time qualifying appearances at Wimbledon and the US Open before she fell ill.

A bout of glandular fever developed into Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), which had a similar effect on Hives as chronic fatigue syndrome.

"I'm definitely grateful just to be healthy, first off. It's great to be back at this level again and to be training, running around and playing," Hives said.

IN OTHER NEWS:

Hives is one of eight Australians to receive women's singles qualifying wildcards, including teenagers Talia Gibson (17), Charlotte Kempenaers-Pocz (17), Taylah Preston (16) and Catherine Aulia (17).

The Australian Open qualifiers start on Monday and run through to Friday.

The main draw begins on January 17, with the final scheduled for January 30.

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