Russian Elena Vesnina has set her sights on creating history at the 2014 Hobart International.
Vesnina, the defending champion, is aiming to become the first player to win back-to-back titles at the tournament.
The world no. 25, who is competing in Hobart for the seventh time, said she always enjoyed the event and was thrilled to be starting her 2014 season here.
“I’m really happy to be back in Hobart,” she said. “My first title was here and I will remember this moment forever.”
Vesnina arrived in Hobart early to prepare for the tournament knowing she faces a tough challenge to defend her title.
“This year it is a really strong tournament,” she said. “There is a lot of great players, like Venus Williams and Samantha Stosur. It’s going to be very exciting for players and spectators.”
Vesnina’s Hobart International victory last year set her up for a career-best season, in which she reached a career-high singles ranking of 21 and won a second singles title in June. She also won the French Open women’s doubles title and achieved a career-high doubles ranking of 4.
“I’m more mature and more confident,” Vesnina explained when asked about the reason for her 2013 success.
> Tickets for the 2014 Hobart International can be purchased online at ticketek.com.au.