Urszula Radwanska dazzled in round one of qualifying – and we are not just talking about her sparkling dress.
The No.94 was clinical in her first match of the season, dropping just one game. Radwanska is back on court this morning, facing Netherlands’ Richel Hogenkamp. The 25-year-old is competing in Hobart for a third time, aiming to emulate her run through qualifying in her last visit in 2009.
Hogenkamp had a similarly comprehensive win in round one, dropping only four games to Australian wildcard Naiktha Bains. The world No.132 is competing in Hobart for a second time, having also qualified last year.
“Last year I liked it here and I played very well, so I come back with good memories and I hope this year I do even better,” Hogenkamp said.
Their showdown opens proceedings on Court Events Tasmania.
Third seed Kurumi Nara, now the highest seed left in the qualifying draw, opens play on centre court against American Katerina Stewart. The world No.81 was a semifinalist here last year, so is familiar with the conditions.
Australian wildcard Zoe Hives is next on centre court, facing Spaniard Laura Pous-Tio. Hives was a surprise packet yesterday, scoring the biggest win of her career.
It is also Kids Tennis Day at the Hobart International, as family fun takes over the Domain Tennis Centre. Children can try ANZ Tennis Hot Shots and meet some of the world’s best players who will hit with them and sign autographs. It is free entry for all ages.