Rafael Nadal’s Aussie tennis summer will begin in the blockbuster Brisbane International, live and free on the 9Network from December 31 to January 7.

Nine Grand Slam champions will line up in one of the strongest fields the tournament has ever seen when Nadal features alongside Naomi Osaka, Andy Murray, Aryna Sabalenka, Elena Rybakina, Jelena Ostapenko, Victoria Azarenka, Sofia Kenin and Sloane Stephens.

Four men ranked in the top 20 will also appear, with world No.8 Holger Rune, world No.14 Grigor Dimitrov, world No.17 Ben Shelton, world No.20 Ugo Humbert, plus giant slayer Sebastian Korda.

In the women’s draw, Naomi Osaka makes her return after the birth of her daughter, with eight of the world top 20 set to compete, including former world No.1 and three-time Brisbane International champion Karolina Pliskova and world No.12 Madison Keys.

Flying the Aussie flag will be Alexei Popyrin, Max Purcell and Jordan Thompson in the men’s singles competition, along with Queensland’s Kimberly Birrell.

Nine’s Wide World of Sports tennis expert, Jelena Dokic, said: “With Rafa and Osaka both plotting their Australian Open returns, the eyes of both the sporting and tennis world will be eagerly awaiting the Brisbane International.

“After a long break it will be great to have them back on court again in Australia. They have both played the Brisbane International before and they’re former Australian Open champions, so they like our conditions.  

“Expect some jaw-dropping matches and don’t be surprised to see our emerging Aussies lift on home soil for some underdog wins.”

Live and free coverage on the 9Network or to stream on 9Now will be hosted by Nick McArdle and Brett Phillips.

Featuring in tournament commentary will be Nine’s Jelena Dokic, Peter Psaltis, Tom Rehn and Wally Masur.

Broadcast Schedule

BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL
 LIVE AND FREE ON THE 9NETWORK 
STREAM EVERY MATCH FREE IN HD ON 9NOW

Tuesday, December 19, 2023