Just days after Serena Williams’ presence at the Australian Open was in doubt, she appears to be back on track to compete in the first major of 2018 following a deal struck with AccorHotels.
For the third year in a row the 36-year-old has been appointed the brand ambassador for AccorHotels, a partner of the Australian Open. Williams, who is the defending champion in Melbourne, will be the official ambassador for the tournament. Signalling that she will be playing in the event. The former world No.1 hasn’t played on the tour since January. She gave birth to her daughter in September and has not spoken publicly about when she will return.
“I am thrilled to return as AccorHotels Official Ambassador for the 2018 Australian Open,” said Serena. “I love staying with AccorHotels because they make me feel like family and I can rest and recover in comfort and style.”
Confusion about Williams’ January plans erupted earlier this week. Business website Knect365 has claimed that she will be a keynote speaker at the ‘Inside ETF’s’ conference in Hollywood. The four-day event will occur at the same time of the Australian Open. Williams is scheduled to deliver a closing speech on January 23rd. The same day as the Women’s quarter-finals.
Despite that apparent obligation, the CEO of AccorHotels Asia Pacific has assured that Williams will play at the major. Contradicting the claims made by Knect365. In a statement, Michael Issenberg said that the ‘eyes of the world’ will be on Williams as she plays in her first grand slam tournament since becoming a mother.
“As one of the most celebrated athletes of all time, Serena is the perfect ambassador for AccorHotels for the Australian Open and we are thrilled that she has signed on with us again,”said Issenberg.
“After taking home the Australian Open title last year while secretly in the early stages of her pregnancy, the eyes of the world will be on Serena this year as she plays her first major tournament after having her daughter.
“Serena is truly a role model and her determination and commitment are an inspiration to our teams, our guests and tennis fans the world over,” he continued.
It appears that the information from AccorHotels is correct with Williams set to earn ‘Millions’ from the deal. Under the agreement, the 23-time grand slam champion will feature in billboards, in-hotel collaterals, owned and social media channels leading up to and during the Australian Open.
The Australian Open will get underway on January 15th. AccorHotels will host the official 2018 player party.
