Tasmanian tennis fans are in for a treat with the confirmation that Slovakian stunner Daniela Hantuchova will make her debut at the Hobart International in 2015.
The current world No. 62 has accepted Hobart’s wildcard and is set to light up centre court at the Domain Tennis Centre.
A consistent year on the WTA tour saw Hantuchova finish in the top 100 for the 14th straight year. However a niggling right knee injury forced her to retire at the Qatar Total Open in Doha and withdraw from Abierto Mexicano TELCEL in Acapulco.
She has credited her coach Carlos Rodriguez with her new approach to the game which saw her defeat former French Open finalist Sara Errani at the ASB Classic in Auckland before being defeated by Poland’s Urszula Radwanska 1-6 6-3 6-1 yesterday.
Mark Handley, Hobart International Tournament Director believes the event will provide her with tough matches before the Australian Open.
“We are delighted to welcome Daniela to the Hobart International and her star power will add to the already impressive line-up,” he said.
“She is a crowd favourite around the world and I’m sure she will be a hit with fans, young and old alike.
“I know she is looking forward to soaking up the beautiful scenery Hobart has to offer.”
Hantuchova will join Australian favourite Casey Dellacqua, Sloane Stevens (USA), Hobart International 2014 runner-up Klara Koukalova (CZE) and 2012 champion Mona Barthel (GER).
Tickets remain at 2014 prices and are on sale now via Ticketek or by calling 1300 888 104.