The concept of a "wild card" in tennis tournaments refers to a player who is granted entry into the main draw despite not qualifying through the regular tournament structure. Wild cards are often awarded to promising young players, local talents, or those recovering from injuries to facilitate their return to competitive play. This approach allows tournament organizers to enhance the event by including exciting talents and drawing crowds. Wild cards can dramatically change the dynamics of a tournament, as these players often have the potential to upset higher-ranked competitors.