'Thrilled to be returning': Rybakina, Zverev confirmed for 2027 Brisbane International
Elena Rybakina and Alex Zverev are the first big names to be locked in for January's Brisbane International.
The tournament is classified as a WTA 500 and an ATP 250 and runs from January 3-10.
Rybakina, who claimed the world No.1 ranking for the first time after defeating Aryna Sabalenka in last month's US Open final, will make her third appearance in Brisbane.
"I'm really looking forward to starting my season in Brisbane," said Rybakina, the 2024 champion. "Winning the title in 2024 was special, and it's a tournament I love playing.
"The crowds are awesome, as is the atmosphere. I can't wait to come back."
Listen to The First Serve Live every Monday at 8pm AEDT in its 18th year on the SEN Network/App, Australia's only dedicated weekly tennis program on commercial radio.
Two-time major winner Zverev, guaranteed to end 2026 as the year-end No.1, will also return to Pat Rafter Arena.
"Brisbane is a great way for me to start the new season, and I'm thrilled to be returning for the first time since 2020," Zverev said.
"I really enjoyed playing there. Pat Rafter Arena is a great stadium, with packed crowds and passionate fans; the atmosphere is always fantastic."
Tickets to the 2027 Kooyong Classic are officially on sale! 🎾 12–14 January 2027. Buy your tickets here 👉 bit.ly/4xEDn7p
Brisbane International Tournament Director Cameron Pearson expressed his excitement after the news was confirmed.
"To have both the men's and women's world No.1s competing at the Brisbane International for the first time is a historic moment for the tournament and incredibly exciting for our fans," he said.
"Elena Rybakina and Alexander Zverev have each won two Grand Slam titles this year, the most of any player, and we're thrilled they've chosen Brisbane to start their 2027 seasons.
"Elena knows what it takes to win here, having lifted the trophy in 2024, and we're delighted to welcome her back following an outstanding year.
"It's also fantastic to have Alexander returning to Brisbane for the first time since the ATP Cup in 2020. He's had the best season of his career, and I can't wait for fans to see him up close at Pat Rafter Arena as the world's No.1 male player.
"Today's announcement is just the beginning. With tickets on sale today and many more exciting player announcements to come, the Brisbane International 2027 is shaping up to be the best yet."
Cremonini Clay specialises in converting en tout cas tennis courts into Cremonini Italian clay tennis courts at a fraction of the cost of a total court rebuild, with over 50 years of experience. To find out more, head to www.cremoniniclay.com.au
Comments