Stosur’s Hobart bound

KYLE WISNIEWSKI

HOBART is “ideal preparation” for former Grand Slam champion Sam Stosur, who will use the Hobart International to prepare for her 19th Australian Open.

Stosur, 35, is returning to the Hobart International for the third time, reaching the semis in 2014 and competing at the tournament as a teen in 2004.

The 2011 US Open champ, who has played at the Brisbane and Sydney International tournaments in recent years, said she is looking forward to returning to Hobart in January.

“The Hobart International is a great unique event, and one that I’ve enjoyed being a part of in past years,” Stosur said. “I see it as the ideal preparation for the Australian Open and I can’t wait to be back. I love coming to Tasmania, the fans are always enthusiastic and I’m looking forward to fitting in some sightseeing.”

Stosur, the reigning Australian Open doubles winner, could also be competing in the format at the Hobart International according to tournament director Darren Sturgess.

“Sam boasts a stellar career as both a singles and doubles player, and has continued to add to her imposing resume this year with her Australian Open 2019 doubles title and Fed Cup Final appearance,” Sturgess said.

“Securing a former world number four and one of Australia’s most loved tennis players is a great result for the Hobart International and reinforces the event’s reputation as one that attracts both current and future stars of women’s tennis.”

Sturgess said he is currently talking with Stosur’s Australian Open partner Zhang Shuai to play at next year’s Hobart International.

The full field for the Hobart International, which will take place at the Domain Tennis Centre from January 11-18, is expected in early December.

“We don’t know who might be coming yet,” Sturgess said.

“There is a great cop of talent in that ranking range that we get here in Hobart.

“We are excited for the talent we might get for 2020.”