Isabella Holland and Monika Wejnert were today announced as the final two women wildcards to join the Brisbane International this January.
The Brisbane teenagers will join world No.5 Ana Ivanovic, Daniela Hantuchova, former Australian Open champion Amelie Mauresmo and Australians Samantha Stosur, Jarmila Gajdosova and Jelena Dokic in the women’s draw.
Brisbane International Tournament Director Steve Ayles said he is delighted have two local rising juniors as part of the Brisbane International.
“Holland and Wejnert have shown amazing potential reaching the semifinals and finals in the recent Australian Open wildcard play-off,” Ayles said.
“This will be the girls first senior WTA event and what a wonderful chance to debut on the tour in your home town and state, in your local tournament, which is also having its debut.
“The Brisbane International will be a great opportunity for both Holland and Wejnert to gain top level playing experience against some of the best women tennis players in the world.
“It will be a steep learning curve for the 16-year-old girls but I am sure they will both flourish with the home town support they will receive.”
Holland has played singles at all four junior Grand Slams and was runner-up in the girls’ doubles at Wimbledon in 2008.
Progressing to the women’s semifinal at the Australian Open wildcard play-off, before being beaten by Wejnert 6-3 6-4, she was also the Optus 18s Australian Singles runner-up at Melbourne Park this December, losing to Marija Mirkovic 6-4 6-3.
Wejnert, a 2008 Optus Junior Fed Cup team member, was the stand out performer at last week’s Australian Open play-off. She showed composure beyond her years with five consecutive wins over older opponents before eventually losing to Dokic 7-6 5-7 3-6 in the women’s final at Melbourne Park.
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.