Australia’s newest international tennis event, the Brisbane International, will again kick off the Australian Open (AO) Series in January 2010.
The AO Series comprises the Brisbane International, Medibank International Sydney and Moorilla Hobart International, and provides the world’s best tennis players with the perfect preparation for the first Grand Slam tournament of the year, the Australian Open.
“With most players coming out of the northern hemisphere’s winter, the AO Series events give them the opportunity to acclimatise and get some world-class matches prior to the Australian Open,” Tennis Australia’s CEO Steve Wood said.
“In 2009, with the new stadium in Brisbane and a court upgrade in Hobart, all three tournaments were played on the same True Blue Plexicushion surface as the Australian Open, further enhancing the appeal of the AO Series events.
“The inaugural Brisbane International, staged at the stunning new Queensland Tennis Centre, was an instant hit with both the players and the Queensland public this year, and we look forward to another strong event.
“Another great thing about all the AO Series events is that fans across the country can see some fantastic tennis action live in their home states.”
Headlining the field in Brisbane for 2010 is US Open champion and comeback queen Kim Clijsters.
“Australia is a home away from home for me and I am thrilled to be coming back in January for the Brisbane International,” Clijsters said.
“I have heard what a great event Brisbane was last year and I am looking forward to seeing all the new facilities and stadium.”
Joining Clijsters in Brisbane is former world No.1 and 2009 Wimbledon finalist, Andy Roddick.
“I have heard great reports from other players on the circuit about the Brisbane International,” Roddick said.
“I am looking forward to playing in Brisbane and experiencing what the city and the tournament has to offer. With a high quality field, some excellent weather and a great venue, it will be the perfect preparation for the Australian Open.”
The Medibank International Sydney promises another strong line-up, with surprise US Open winner Juan Martin del Potro and three-time Sydney champion Justine Henin both believed to be considering Sydney as their Australian Open warm-up.
The Moorilla Hobart International has provided the springboard to Australian Open success for many top 50 players, including Alicia Molik in 2003, Casey Dellacqua in 2008 and 2007, and Australian Open champion Serena Williams in 2007.
Work has begun on the redevelopment of the Domain Tennis Centre, with the first phase – a new entrance, grandstand and media facilities – to be completed for the 2010 tournament. A new temporary grandstand will also be erected.
“It’s great to finally be able to offer a facility that matches the quality of the tennis on show here in January,” Tournament Director Michael Roberts said.
“The 2009 tournament featured one of the most talented line-ups in the event’s history, with three of the world’s top 20 and 17 of the world’s top 50 competing in the main draw, and we look forward to putting on an even better show in 2010.”
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