The women’s draw for the Brisbane International is one of the most stacked WTA 500 events in recent history.
Seven of the top 10 will appear at the tournament as players return from their off-season and begin their preparations for the Australian Open.
World number one Aryna Sabalenka will play singles and doubles in Brisbane in her first tennis action since losing to Nick Kyrgios in the Battle of the Sexes.
The star has been handed an extremely difficult draw that could see her face three Grand Slam champions before the final.
Aryna Sabalenka’s difficult draw at the Brisbane International
With such a deep field at the Brisbane International, no one will be given an easy ride in the early stages of the tournament.
Sabalenka, who is looking to defend her Brisbane title from 2025, has received a bye in the first round, with the winner of Anna Bondar or Cristina Bucsa facing the world number one in round two.
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Should Sabalenka get past either Bucsa or Bondar, a potential banana skin in the form of Jelena Ostapenko will likely be waiting in round three.
The games will not get easier from there as Madison Keys looks the most likely final eight opponent, who is returning Down Under for the first time since winning Adelaide and the Australian Open in 2025.
Elena Rybakina, fresh from her WTA Finals success against Sabalenka, could face the world number one in the semi-final.
If seeds are to be believed, and Sabalenka reaches the final, then Amanda Anisimova could be lining up against the star.
Who is missing from the Brisbane International?
While most of the top stars have decided to play Brisbane this year, there are several top stars who have opted for the United Cup.
Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff have both decided to represent their countries at the Sydney and Perth competition, as they play alongside Taylor Fritz and Hubert Hurkacz.
World No. 10 Jasmine Paolini is also at the United Cup, along with top 20 stars Belinda Bencic and Naomi Osaka.
Nevertheless, the Brisbane International is one of the most competitive WTA 500 events in recent memory and whoever wins it deserves huge credit.
