Multiple grand slam champion Serena Williams is set to play her first ever WTA match in New Zealand after confirming she will play in the ASB Classic next year.
The World No.2 will end her two-year run of playing in the prestigious Hopman Cup in order to participate in Auckland, which is categorized as a WTA International event. It has been reported that the former world No.1 has been awarded an appearance fee of approximately NZ$200,000, however, there has been no official confirmation.
“I am really excited to be coming to Auckland for the first time. I have heard so many great things about the city and the tournament itself and I have always wanted to play there,” Williams said in a statement.
“The ASB Classic is the first event of the year. It can really set you up for a great run in Melbourne and I will be looking to start my year strongly in Auckland,” she later added.
Tournament director Karl Budge has hailed Williams’ attendance as a massive coup for his event. Speaking to local media in New Zealand on Wednesday, Budge was full of praise about the 35-year-old and her accomplishments in the sport.
“Serena is one of the biggest sporting stars on the planet. She has had the most Grand Slam victories, most consecutive weeks at Number One and has twice held all four Grand Slam trophies at once. I think she is the greatest player, man or woman, to play the game.” He said.
The confirmation of Williams comes as she battles a shoulder injury which has forced her to withdraw from the Wuhan and China Open. She isn’t expected to return to action until the final event of the year at the WTA Finals in Singapore. This season the American has been troubled by shoulder and knee problems.
As injury uncertainties surround Williams, doubts has already been cast on the likelihood of her competing in Auckland. Nevertheless ASB director Budge believes she will be playing in New Zealand.
“She’s got a track record of playing in week one and winning tournaments that week and that gives you the confidence,” he said.
“At other times of the year you can draw some conclusions, but week one she plays and she’s captured titles.”
Next year will mark the 32nd edition of the women’s ASB Classic. Previous winners have included Venus Williams, Agnieszka Radwanska, Ana Ivanovic and Sloane Stephens. The 2017 tournament will begin on January 2nd with the complete player field yet to be announced.
