Hobart International 2026 Off to a Flying Begin with Qualifying and Main Draw Reveal

Family Fun Success

The Family Fun Weekend kicked off early with the Ball Kid Hat Presentation, led by Antonia Ružić (HRV), who was thrilled to satisfy the 48 Ball Kids chosen to take the court docket all through the Hobart International.

Most of the Ball Kids are from Hobart and surrounding areas, with members of the squad additionally travelling from Launceston, Newcastle (NSW) and Brisbane (QLD) to be a part of this yr’s event.

The Ball Kid squad is crammed with proficient and creating athletes, with many representing Tasmania at nationwide age-level tennis tournaments. Several squad members are additionally state and nationwide representatives in sports activities equivalent to cricket and orienteering.

Tournament Director Darren Sturgess was happy with the robust turnout regardless of the sooner climate disruptions.

“It’s always great to get to Day 1 of the qualifying weekend. We want to thank the fans for persevering and coming out to support the event, especially with the conditions earlier,” Sturgess stated.

“It’s fantastic to see them here watching some of the amazing players on court.”

The Main Draw Ceremony

The Main Draw Ceremony featured returning 2025 Champion McCartney Kessler (USA) alongside WTA Tour Supervisor Cristina Romero, Tournament Director Darren Sturgess, and Tasmania Devils’ Kath McCann.

With a jam-packed draw for 2026, followers have been wanting to see the match-ups and be taught who would face main stars together with Venus Williams and Emma Raducanu.

“The calibre of the competition this year is outstanding,” Sturgess stated.

“We’ve got some big names in the draw, and that creates a really exciting environment for both the players and the fans.”

“Having McCartney back as the defending champion is fantastic. She knows the courts, knows the conditions, and she’ll be very tough to beat. The fact that she’s chosen to return says a lot about the experience she’s had here.”

“This event continues to go from strength to strength every year. We work extremely hard to ensure players have a great experience when they’re here, and it’s pleasing to see so many top-end athletes using this tournament as preparation for the Australian Open.”

“Of course, having Venus Williams here is huge. She’s a global icon who transcends tennis, and she’s going to bring that competitive edge to every match she plays.”

The Hobart International Main Draw is on the market on-line, with the Order of Play up to date every day.

Hobart International Tennis Tournament – Draws for 10–17 January

Mertens Withdraws from Tournament

Two-time Hobart International champion Elise Mertens (BEL) has withdrawn from the event following a robust displaying on the United Cup in Sydney.

Mertens launched the next assertion:

“I’m very sorry to need to withdraw from the Hobart International this yr. I’ve such fond reminiscences on and off the court docket there and look ahead to returning subsequent yr.

Good luck to all of the gamers, and I shall be watching from afar.”

Grab your tickets early so you don’t miss your favourite player on court.