Former world No.1 Martina Hingis has arrived on the Gold Coast for the Australian Women's Hardcourt tournament, which begins on Sunday.

After the withdrawal of Russian Maria Sharapova, Hingis now looms as the tournament's major drawcard.

Hingis hopes to return to her best for what will be her first professional tour match since she retired three years ago from foot, heel and ankle injuries.

The 25-year-old Swiss player will follow the wildcard entry at Royal Pines with appearances in next month's Sydney International and the Australian Open in Melbourne on January 16.

Meanwhile, Nicole Pratt and Sophie Ferguson will square off for a wildcard spot on Wednesday.

Pratt moved into the final of the qualifying rounds with a 6-3 6-1 victory over Victorian Lauren Breadmore, while Ferguson was pushed all the way in her 7-5 2-6 6-4 win over West Australian Casey Dellacqua.

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