Top Tennis Players Set to Compete in Brisbane Tournament
Former world No 1 Naomi Osaka is making her highly anticipated return to the WTA tour at the Brisbane International in January after a break of 15 months.
The four-time Grand Slam winner last played at the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo in late September 2022 and became a mother to a daughter, Shai, in July the following year.
Osaka, 26, has taken long breaks from the game, primarily focusing on her mental health after skipping the 2021 French Open and also taking a break after the US Open the same year.
“I am really excited about getting back out on court and competing,” said Osaka, who views the tournament as a warm-up for the Australian Open, where she was victorious in 2019 and 2021.
“I always love starting my season in Brisbane and can’t wait to return. The Brisbane International is such a great tournament and will set me up for a brilliant comeback this summer.”
The Brisbane tournament, which is returning after a three-year hiatus initially due to the Covid-19 pandemic, will also feature other top players such as Andy Murray, Victoria Azarenka, Holger Rune, and Grigor Dimitrov from December 31 to January 7.
“It’s great to see the Brisbane International back and I am really looking forward to returning to Queensland this summer,” said Murray, who has been a finalist in five Australian Opens.
“I have great memories of winning the title in 2012 and 2013 and I would love to lift the trophy again for a third time in Brisbane.”
The Australian Open takes place at Melbourne Park from January 14-28.
Jessica Roberts serves up the latest in the world of tennis. With a love for the racket sport, she reports on tennis matches, player rankings, and Grand Slam events, ensuring readers stay informed about the tennis world.
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