Published from ASB Classic

The ASB Tennis Classic celebrates its return to Auckland in the New Year with the confirmation that Canada’s No 1 female, Leylah Fernandez is the latest top-line player to sign up.

The US Open runner-up, who has just turned 20, is another of the exciting young stars to emerge on the world tennis scene.

Her announcement coincides with tickets going on sale to the public from midday today for the event from January 2-14, with the women’s event in the first week and the men following from 9 January.

ASB Classic Event Director, Nicolas Lamperin said it is an exciting time for the tournament.

“Leylah is among the brilliant young players emerging on the world scene, several of whom want to come back to New Zealand where they have enjoyed their experiences before,” said Lamperin.

“The tournament is back after three years and the quality of players we have announced is outstanding, with more to come.

“Our organising team is fully focussed on delivering a wonderful experience for fans, who are now able to secure tickets.

“The pre-sales have been at a level higher than anyone can remember and we would recommend that fans act swiftly to avoid disappointment. If you want to buy the perfect Christmas present for the family, why not a day or two at the tennis?”

Lamperin said he is thrilled to have attracted Fernandez to the tournament.

“Leylah was the first Canadian for 10 years to win a Junior Grand Slam, and she qualified for the Australian Open as a 17-year-old.

“Her breakthrough was last year when she won her first WTA title at Monterrey, and she enjoyed three wins over world top-10 players on her way to making the final of the US Open last year, and this year made the quarterfinals at the French Open.”

Lamperin said that Fernandez, who defended her title at Monterrey this year, joins other young players on the rise including Coco Gauff, Cam Norrie and Casper Ruud, lining up for the ASB Classic.

Tickets for the ASB Classic start from $21 (plus fees) for children and $36 (plus fees) for adults, with tickets on sale from noon on Tuesday.