Wozniacki to run New York marathon

Originally published on 01/08/14

The world No.13 has confirmed that she will be running as a Team for Kids charity ambassador as part of the New York Road Runners team on November 2, the week after the WTA Championships, of which Wozniacki will be hoping to be a part of.

“I can’t wait to trade my tennis racket for a pair of running shoes and take part in the 2014 TCS New York City Marathon,” said Wozniacki. “I grew up in a family where sports were a huge part of our lives, and I learned from a young age the importance of being active. That’s why running for Team for Kids is so important to me.

“When I cross the finish line in Central Park, it will be one of the most rewarding days of my life, not only because of the personal accomplishment, but also because it will help thousands of kids to get healthy and fit through sports.”

The 24-year-old will be following in the footsteps of fellow former world No.1 Amelia Mauresmo, but the Frenchwoman did not run the 26.2mile race until 2010, a year after she had retired from professional tennis.

Wozniacki appeared on CBS This Morning on Thursday alongside reigning Boston Marathon champion Meb Keflezighi, who will be running the race for a sixth time. In 2009 he became the first American since Alberto Salazar in 1982 to win the New York City Marathon.

“We’re excited to welcome two of the world’s top athletes to the 2014 TCS New York City Marathon as Team for Kids Ambassadors,” said New York Road Runners president and CEO Mary Wittenberg. “They’ll serve as inspirations to the 50,000 runners and millions of fans lining the streets of the City’s five boroughs and watching the race broadcast around the world.”

Wozniacki had been due to marry golfer Rory McIlroy in November before the Northern Irishman called off the wedding in May, a day after the invitations had been sent to guests.

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