World No.3 and 2016 US Open champion Stan Wawrinka (SUI) is heading to Queensland to play at his first Brisbane International presented by Suncorp and start the 2017 season in the Sunshine State.
The announcement comes just weeks after Wawrinka won his third Grand Slam, climbing to his highest ever ranking behind Novak Djokovic (SRB) and Andy Murray (GBR).
“I’m excited to be heading to Brisbane International for the first time in my career. I’ve heard such great things about the event and the beautiful city of Brisbane, and it feels like the right time to change-up the start of my season,” Wawrinka said.
For many years Wawrinka played in the shadow of his legendary compatriot Roger Federer (SUI). However with the 31-year-old now reaching career best form, superseding Federer in the rankings, his intentions are firmly set on becoming world No.1.
“Brisbane is certainly one of the best events on the tour, always attracting the top players,” he said.
With the early signing of Spanish superstar Rafael Nadal (ESP), the Brisbane International has attracted the full list of top-ten players in its nine-year history. World No.1 Angelique Kerber (GER) and French Open champion Garbine Muguruza (ESP) have also signed up on the women’s side of the draw.
“It’s really exciting to have Stan, the current world No.3 coming to Brisbane for the first time to compete in the Brisbane International,” said Tournament Director Geoff Quinlan.
“It’s a real coup for us to have the three-time Grand Slam singles champion start his 2017 campaign right here in Brisbane.
“The Brisbane International has welcomed some of the biggest names in tennis over its nine year history and the 2017 line-up is no exception with the addition of one of the hottest players on tour right now, Stan Wawrinka. I know the fans will come out to see Stan, his exciting brand of tennis and arguably the best single-handed backhand on the tour.”
Minister for Tourism and Major Events Kate Jones said the addition of the US Open champion is a great drawcard to attract visitors to the tournament.
“After his sensational win at the US Open, tennis fans will be lining up to see Stan Wawrinka when he opens his 2017 campaign in Brisbane,” Ms Jones said.
“This is the first time he will visit and play in Brisbane and I am sure it will be an experience he and our great Brisbane crowds will enjoy.
“We look forward to welcoming him to Brisbane and showing him everything Queensland has to offer.”
Brisbane International 2017, presented by Suncorp and supported by Tourism and Events Queensland, will be held at Queensland Tennis Centre from 1 to 8 January. The tournament is part of the Emirates Australian Open Series, which also incorporates Hopman Cup (Perth), Apia International Sydney, Hobart International and World Tennis Challenge (Adelaide).
Single session tickets will go on sale through Ticketek from Wednesday 12 October 2016. Please visit Ticketek for more information.
For all tournament information please visit brisbaneinternational.com.au.