Aryna Sabalenka will begin her preparations for the Australian Open by competing at the brisbane International, organisers announced on Tuesday. Elena Rybakina, who was defeated by Sabalenka in the final in melbourne earlier this year, will also compete in the december 31-January 7 brisbane tournament. Naomi Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam winner, has already been confirmed to the field.

"I'm looking forward to beginning my 2024 Australian season in brisbane," Sabalenka stated in a statement provided by the organisers.

"Australia holds a special place in my heart after winning my first Grand Slam there."

Cam Pearson, tournament director, said he was looking forward to hosting Belarusian Sabalenka and fourth-ranked Kazakh Rybakina, who was born in Moscow.

"We all remember the exciting Australian Open final that the girls played at the start of the year," he said during a news conference.

"That has really kicked off what is a pretty exciting rivalry between the two players."

On the men's side, fast-rising world number 17 Ben Shelton of the united states will compete against three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray.

Pearson stated that if Australian Nick Kyrgios recovers from his injury in time, he will be welcomed to the event.

"We would love to have him here, he's a past champion and a fan favourite but he needs to do what's best for him and his recovery," he added.

"If that means he's playing in January, fantastic."
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G GOWTHAM

28/11/2023 09:54 AM