Hometown hero Thanasi Kokkinakis to play the Adelaide International in January
Hometown favourite and 2022 champion Thanasi Kokkinakis will play the Adelaide International in 2024.
South Australia will host the WTA 500 and ATP 250 tournament from 8 to 13 January at The Drive.
The 27-year-old, who recently surpassed the career-high ranking he set eight years ago to peak at world No.68, is currently at home contesting the City of Playford International.
Kokkinakis delivered a standout performance at this year’s tournament, powering into the semi-finals. It is expected The Drive will come alive again with his loyal fan base cheering him on.
Three-time Grand Slam champion Angelique Kerber will headline the women’s field alongside Australia’s Ajla Tomljanovic, with both players arriving at the Adelaide International after the United Cup.
Kerber, the former world No.1 has not competed since 2022 and is planning a triumphant return to the court following maternity leave.
Twenty-one-year-old Lorenzo Musetti of Italy will also play the tournament. The former world No.1 junior broke into the Top 20 in January.
Thanasi Kokkinakis said the opportunity to play world class tennis at home in Adelaide in front of his family, friends and the fans is not one he takes for granted, and winning the Adelaide International in 2022 was an incredible moment in his career.
“Playing Centre Court at The Drive with a home crowd cheering me on is what gives me the extra motivation and legs to keep going. There is still a lot of preparation between now and January, but I am excited to be coming back to play the Adelaide International as part of the Summer of tennis," Mr Kokkinakis said.
Tennis SA CEO and Adelaide International General Manager Debbie Sterrey said it is pleasing to welcome Thanasi back home to The Drive in January.
"We know the atmosphere of watching him play on centre court is thrilling,” Ms Sterrey said.
“To be able to confirm four players in the field this early is a strong sign and commitment by the players of their support of the Adelaide International and the great experience they have here in Adelaide. We are encouraging all tennis fans to secure their tickets early.
“A big thank you and acknowledgement to the State Government for their support, not only of the Adelaide International 2024 but also for our recent $48m Centre Court Redevelopment which will be showcased as an elite, international fit for purpose tennis venue to the world.”
Tourism Minister, Zoe Bettison said it was exciting to see the return of the world-class Adelaide International as a one-week tournament this summer.
“We know the players love coming to Adelaide, and that the fans love the atmosphere and excitement of the event, as well as delivering an experience that is more than just tennis,” Minister Bettison said.
“Live music, entertainment, bars, food trucks, and new premium corporate experiences at The Drive along with a Kids Zone and themed days, means there is something for everyone, from the tennis fanatic to the casual fan and avid event goer.”
Adelaide International is proudly supported by the South Australian Government through the South Australian Tourism Commission and will be held at The Drive from 8 to 13 January 2024.
Tickets to the Adelaide International 2024 are on sale now. For more information visit adelaideinternational.com.au.