Aryna Sabalenka, Elena Rybakina to lead Brisbane International field ahead of 2024 Australian Open

Aryna Sabalenka will start her 2024 WTA Tour season at the Brisbane International.

The world No. 2 will headline the field at the WTA 500 tournament, which starts on December 31.

It will be Sabalenka’s first time in Brisbane, which is back on the calendar for the first time since 2020 following cancellations due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

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

“I can’t wait to make my debut at the Brisbane International and play in front of the Queensland tennis fans.”

Sabalenka started her 2023 season with a 13-match winning streak in Australia as she was victorious in Adelaide and then lifted her first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open.

She will be joined in Brisbane by world No. 4 Elena Rybakina, as well as former world No. 1s Naomi Osaka and Victoria Azarenka.

For Osaka it will be her first tournament in 16 months as she returns from having her first child.

The men’s field in Brisbane will feature world No. 17 Ben Shelton.

The 21-year-old made the quarter-finals of the Australian Open this year and will join Andy Murray, Holger Rune and Grigor Dimitrov at the tournament.

“I’m thrilled to be playing the Brisbane International for the first time in 2024,” said Shelton.

“My first trip to Australia was last January, and it was such an amazing experience. The fans were so welcoming.

“I’m looking forward to exploring Brisbane and playing in front of the local fans. Hopefully, there will also be a chance to fit in some sightseeing during my visit.”

The Australian Open starts on Sunday, January 14.

Novak Djokovic will be the defending men’s champion and Sabalenka will be defending the women’s title.