As tennis enthusiasts gear up for an exciting start to the new year with the Adelaide International 2024 taking centre stage at The Drive, the announcement of homegrown champion Thanasi Kokkinakis returning promises to set the stage for an exciting Summer event in the city.
Running from January 8th to 13th, Adelaide’s very own Thanasi Kokkinakis, who electrified fans by clinching the 2022 Adelaide International title, will lead a stellar lineup of tennis stars at next year’s tournament.
Kokkinakis, currently ranked world No. 68, recently reached a career-high ranking, marking a resurgence in his career. As he competes in the City of Playford Tennis International, anticipation is building for his return to The Drive, where he left a firm mark in 2022.
Kokkinakis, reflecting on his triumphant moment, expressed his excitement about competing on home turf once again. “The opportunity to play world-class tennis at home in Adelaide in front of my family, friends, and the fans is not one I take for granted and winning the Adelaide International in 2022 was an incredible moment in my career’ said Kokkinakis.
‘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.’
Tennis SA CEO and Adelaide International General Manager, Debbie Sterrey, expressed her excitement about today’s announcement. ‘We are really pleased to welcome Thanasi back home to The Drive in January, and we know the atmosphere of watching him play on centre court is thrilling.’
The Adelaide International 2024 boasts an impressive roster of players from the world of tennis. Three-time Grand Slam champion Angelique Kerber, former world No. 1, will headline the ‘women’s field, alongside Australia’s own Ajla Tomljanovic, fresh off her United Cup appearance.
Kerber, who took a break from competition in 2022 due to maternity leave, is poised for a triumphant return to the court, adding to the anticipation surrounding this year’s event. Joining them is Italy’s rising star, Lorenzo Musetti, who broke into the Top 20 in January.
‘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’, Sterrey emphasised.
South Australian Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison highlighted that the Adelaide International is not just about tennis but also a festival of entertainment and fun for all ages.
‘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.’
Moreover, Bettison expressed her enthusiasm for the return of the one-week tournament.
‘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’, Bettison added
As the countdown begins to the Adelaide International 2024, tennis fans and Adelaide residents eagerly await world-class tennis’s return to their hometown.
With the return of Thanasi Kokkinakis and the star-studded lineup, this year’s tournament promises to be an unforgettable sporting spectacle and a vibrant celebration of tennis and community in the heart of Adelaide.
What: Adelaide International 2024
When: January 8th to January 13th, 2024.
Where: The Drive, War Memorial Dr, North Adelaide SA 5006
For further info and tickets, click here.
More News
