In a major coup, former No.1 and current No.5, Andy Roddick, is the first star to sign on for Brisbane International 2010.
Announced today at the Queensland Tennis Centre, Brisbane International Tournament Director Steve Ayles said he was delighted the top-ranked American and Grand Slam singles champion will headline this January.
“Roddick’s appearance is the ultimate endorsement of the event and the city,” Ayles said.
“Following on from his exciting performance at Wimbledon, Roddick is the perfect player to headline the star-studded line-up.
“He will bring personality, style and dynamic tennis to Brisbane and I am sure he will be a crowd favourite with all spectators.
“Last year’s event was undoubtedly a huge success, however, we plan to top it in 2010.
“With the former No.1 and 2003 US Open champion locked in we are well on our way to producing another incredible event.
“Roddick is one of the greats on and off the court and I am sure he will love Brisbane as much as Brisbane will love him.”
Roddick said he is excited to be a part of the Brisbane International for the first time.
“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.
“I look forward to getting down there and trying to win my first Brisbane International and the first event of the year,” Roddick said.
Queensland Premier, Anna Bligh, was excited that Roddick will headline the Brisbane International in 2010.
“The Brisbane International is a world-class tournament in a world-class facility and a player of Andy Roddick’s calibre and world standing adds significantly to our tournament,” said Ms Bligh.
“Queenslanders love their sport and I know that everyone will be keen to support Andy while he is in Brisbane. I know I will be looking forward to his participation.
Roddick has reached five Grand Slam finals, winning the US Open in 2003 and being a runner up at Wimbledon three times and the US Open once, losing to Roger Federer each time.
He and Federer are the only players on the tennis circuit to have been ranked in the Association of Tennis Professionals top 10 at year-end from 2002 through 2008.
To date, Roddick has 27 career singles titles and has been a finalist on 16 additional occasions.
He is known for his powerful serves and holds the fastest serve recorded in professional tennis, measured at 155 mph or 249.5 km/h.
Roddick has also been on the United States Davis Cup team for several years, and helped the US win the 2007 Davis Cup, the first time they have won since 1995.
Brisbane International 2010 series packages will go on sale from 7 October with single sessions on sale from 14 October.
Ground passes remain $9.90 with the qualifying event running from Friday 1 to 2 January 2010 remaining free.