Jordan Thompson gets French Open wildcard

Rising Australian star Jordan Thompson will make his grand slam debut at this month's French Open after receiving Tennis Australia's coveted men's wildcard.

The 22-year-old got the nod from Tennis Australia after climbing more than 160 places in the world rankings in the past 12 months from 254 to No.89.

Thompson slipped into the top 100 last week after winning the Kunming Open in China, too late for the cut off for automatic entry to the Roland Garros field.

Australian Davis Cup captain Lleyton Hewitt said the wildcard opportunity was well-deserved.

"Jordan's a great young bloke with a tremendous work ethic," Hewitt said.

"He's had a really consistent year and it's very pleasing to see him crack the top 100."

At least eight Australians will compete on the famous clay courts in the French capital this month, including Nick Kyrgios, Bernard Tomic, John Millman, Sam Groth, Sam Stosur and Daria Gavrilova.

The French Open starts on May 22.