There will be two Djokovics playing in Brisbane this January, Brisbane International organisers announced today.
The recently crowned Masters Cup champion, Novak Djokovic will be joined by younger brother Marko Djokovic in the doubles for the first time on Australian soil.
The pair will join reigning French Open women’s champion Ana Ivanovic and ATP world number seven Jo-Wilfried Tsonga at what is shaping up as a star-studded inaugural event.
Other confirmed contenders are Na Li and Daniela Hantuchova in the women’s draw, Marcos Baghdatis, Gael Monfils, Richard Gasquet and Mardy Fish in the men’s draw and the world number one doubles pair Cara Black and Liezel Huber.
More announcements are expected to be made before the player cut-off date on 21 November.
Brisbane International Tournament Director Steve Ayles said, “Novak will use the event as a key component in the preparation for his Grand Slam title defense, while Marko is keen for the experience of top level tennis.
“It will be a great opportunity for all tennis fans to see the pair in action and with last weekend marking 50 days out from the start of the tournament there is no better time to snap up some tickets,” Ayles said.
Marko Djokovic first appeared on the junior ITF circuit in September 2006.
Best known for a similar technique to that of his brother and for his cheering in the player box at Australian Open 2008, Marco made his ATP tour debut in September this year where he received a wildcard entry into the main draw of the Thailand Open.
Marko currently trains in Germany, as Novak did, and was granted a wildcard entry into the 2008 Australian Open Junior Championship.
Tickets are now on sale for the Brisbane International through Ticketek, with reserved stadium seating starting at just $24.90.
Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketek.com.au or 1300 888 104.