Moorilla Hobart International Tennis - Australian Open Series

Schiavone enters qualifying

Wednesday 24 December 2008 Comments

The line-up for the 2009 Moorilla Hobart International has been further strengthened today with world No.30 Francesca Schiavone entering tournament qualifying.

The Italian, who will be the top seed for the qualifying event, will become the sixth top 30 player in the Moorilla Hobart International field if she wins through to the main draw.

“We already have one of the most talented line-ups in the events history, with three of the world’s top 20, and now potentially 18 of the world’s top 50 competing in the main draw,” Michael Roberts, Moorilla Hobart International Tournament Director said.

Ranked as high as No.11 in the world in 2006, Schiavone recorded her first Grand Slams finals appearance in 2008 partnering Casey Dellacqua at Roland Garros. 

The unseeded pair had a fantastic run knocking out the tournament No.3, 6, 7 and 16 seeds on their way to the final.

2008 also marked Schiavone’s sixth straight top 30 season with her best singles result a semifinals appearance in Dubai in March.

“Schiavone has consistently been a top ranked player and having her as part of the tournament is a huge boost for Tasmanian tennis fans,” Roberts said.

“The action will truly begin from qualifying when the public will have the opportunity to see world class players battle it out on the new Plexicushion courts at the Domain Tennis Centre.”

Tickets are now on sale for the Moorilla Hobart International through Ticketek, with tickets starting at just $9.90.

Tickets can be purchased online at ticketek.com.au or 1300 888 104.

Tags: Francesca Schiavone

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