Alicia Molik was today announced as the second Brisbane International women’s wildcard recipient.
Justine Henin was granted the first wildcard and Molik’s announcement leaves just one more wildcard available for the main draw of the women’s field at the Brisbane International 2010.
Three men’s wildcards are still to be announced.
Brisbane International Tournament Director Steve Ayles said he was excited to have Molik play in Brisbane for the first time.
“Alicia is a great story and it will be great to see her back in front of an Australian crowd and I know the people of Brisbane will love her,” Ayles said.
“She is a great person on and off the court and I know she will give any opponent a run for their money.
“With the women’s draw being headlined by Grand Slam Champions, Kim Clijsters, Ana Ivanovic and Justine Henin as well as and Australia’s own Jelena Dokic, Molik is another jewel in the crown.
“It will be great to see her come up against a player that will really push her to the next level of her comeback.”
Fed Cup coach and national selector David Taylor said “Alicia is a deserving recipient of the Brisbane International wildcard.
“Alicia is a former world No. 8 and has proven her ability in the domestic Pro Tour at the end of this year,” Taylor said.
“She has been the form player and is a class act. She will make the most of every opportunity and I believe this is just the start of her comeback.
“The Brisbane International will provide her with some great match play in the lead-up to the Australian Open and I expect she will be a tough competitor.”
Molik has played at all four Grand Slams, reached the singles quarterfinals at the Australian Open in 2005 and won two Grand Slam doubles titles at Roland Garros and the Australian Open.
She holds five WTA career titles, won a bronze medal for Australia at the Athens Olympics and has represented Australia in the Fed Cup.
While at the top of her game she claimed several top 10 scalps including, Maria Sharapova, Amelie Mauresmo, and Venus Williams.
World No.6 Andy Roddick headlines the Brisbane International men’s field. He is joined by reigning champion Radek Stepanek, fellow Czech Tomas Berdych, Frenchmen Gael Monfils and Richard Gasquet, and crowd favourites James Blake and Marcos Baghdatis.
Brisbane International 2010 series packages and single sessions are on sale now. Ground passes remain $9.90 with the qualifying event on Friday 1–2 January 2010 remaining free.
Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketek.com.au or 1300 888 104.