By Chris Soderstrom
Next year’s inaugural Brisbane International claimed another big name in former Australian Open finalist Marcos Baghdatis, who was confirmed as a certain starter yesterday at the tournament launch.
The January tournament already boasts the likes of World No. 3 Novak Djokovic, 2008 Australian Open hero Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and fellow Frenchmen Richard Gasquet and Gael Monfils.
Baghdatis will have a big schedule leading into the Australian Open, playing the AAMI Classic at Kooyong from January 14-17.
Teen prodigy Bernard Tomic is expected to make his senior debut at his home tournament as a wildcard.
Meanwhile, tournament director Steve Ayles was happy to announce Samantha Stosur as a certain starter alongside French Open winner Ana Ivanovic.
“We are excited that Queenslander Samantha Stosur will start her Australian Open campaign at the Brisbane International,” Ayles said at the event’s official launch in Brisbane.
“Over the next few weeks we will be confirming more exciting players and developments for the tournament.”
The Brisbane International will be played from January 4-11.