Sabalenka, Rybakina and Shelton join stellar line-up for Brisbane International

World No 2 Aryna Sabalenka and world No 4 Elena Rybakina, who both won Grand Slam titles in 2023, have confirmed that they will begin their 2024 season at the Brisbane International event, joining a stellar line-up that also includes former world No 1s and multiple Grand Slam champions Naomi Osaka and Victoria Azarenka in the WTA 500 event.

On the men’s side, rising American star Ben Shelton has also confirmed he will play the ATP 250 event in Brisbane, joining the likes of world No 8 Holger Rune, world No 14 Grigor Dimitrov and three-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray in the draw.

“I’m excited about starting my 2024 Australian season in Brisbane” – Sabalenka

For Sabalenka, it will be a first time in Brisbane and the Belarusian is looking forward to returning to the country where she won her first Grand Slam singles title.

“I’m excited about starting my 2024 Australian season in Brisbane. Australia holds a special place in my heart after winning my first Grand Slam there,” Sabalenka said in a statement released. “I can’t wait to make my debut at the Brisbane International and play in front of the Queensland tennis fans. It’s a tournament that’s attracted so many good players in the past and I’m hoping it will set me up for another successful summer.”

Shelton, who has risen to No 17 in the world rankings, will return to Australia, the site of his first overseas visit when he came Down Under in 2023.

“I’m thrilled to be playing the Brisbane International for the first time in 2024. My first trip to Australia was last January, and it was such an amazing experience. The fans were so welcoming,” Shelton said. “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.”

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