Chinese tennis star Li Na has been confirmed for January’s 2010 ASB Classic featuring the Kia Motors Singles and doubles.Currently ranked at a career-high 15 Li Na had an incredible run of results in 2009 to take tennis in the world’s most populous nation to a new high. One of the highlights of her career came last year, at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, where she reached the semifinals, beating Svetlana Kuznetsova and Venus Williams.  She has also had 14 wins over top 10 players including Serena Williams when ranked at No1 at the time.

 “It will be my first time to play at ASB Classic and my first time in New Zealand. I plan to arrive early to Auckland to prepare for my first tournament in 2010", says Li na

“Women’s tennis is really growing in China , and I am very proud to be the No1 Chinese player and to finish the year in the top 20. In recent years Chinese players have really started to be noticed around the world on Sony Ericsson WTA Tour having some great results against top players and at major events,” says Li Na

 “It’s great to have our first top 20 player confirmed for the 2010 ASB Classic and someone the New Zealand public have not seen in this country before. I’m confident there will be at least one other top 20 player to follow in the next few weeks,” says ASB Classic Tournament Director, Brenda Perry.

“ China is going to be a real force to be reckoned with on the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour just as has been in recent years and Li Na is leading the charge. She is a highly accomplished new face for the ASB Classic and will be one of the favourites for the title.”

The ASB Classic featuring the Kia Motors Singles and Doubles will be played at the ASB Tennis Centre January 4-9, with qualifying January 2-3. Tickets will be on sale for the 2010 ASB Classic from Ticketek or Tennis Auckland from Monday 2 november 2009.