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Melbourne - Francesca Schiavone's record of playing in 61 consecutive Grand Slam events over 15 years has ended after a loss in the in the qualifying tournament for the Australian Open.
Schiavone, whose 2010 French Open title has been her only career major, lost Friday to Virginie Razzano 6-1, 4-6, 6-1 in the second round of qualifying at Melbourne Park.
The 35-year-old Schiavone, now ranked No 115th, had played in every Grand Slam tournament since the 2000 US Open.
She had played 15 consecutive Australian Opens, with her best result being the quarterfinals in 2011. She had lost in the first round here the past three years.
On the men's side, Roger Federer will be seeded No 3 at the Australian Open, his 65th consecutive Grand Slam tournament.
