International tennis is back on the Domain and locals can get a taste of the action for free.
Once again the eyes of the world will turn to the City of Hobart and one of the most picturesque venues on the Women's Tennis Association circuit.
After a two-year Covid hiatus, the Hobart International returns and the City of Hobart is delighted to continue its strong association with the event.
The City of Hobart provides a $40,000 sponsorship to the tournament that broadcast Hobart to 7.5 million viewers in 2020 and had a direct local spend of $1.32 million in the capital.
The city's sponsorship will provide a free community weekend for the qualifying matches this Saturday and Sunday, which will also involve children's activities, a hot shots clinic and the opportunity to make their own Lego figurines.
Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said it was another world class event showcasing the city globally.
"In the past 12 months, Hobart has been on display via the Ashes Test and the men's ICC T20 World Cup," Cr Reynolds said.
"Previously, this event has been a nursery for greatness, bringing the likes of Victoria Azarenka, Kim Clijsters, Justine Henin and Garbine Muguruza Blanco to the Domain on their ascent to becoming the world's No.1 ranked player, while of course also enabling locals to watch arguably the greatest tennis player of all time, Serena Williams, in Hobart.
"This year's tournament is no different, with another strong field headlined by 2017 US Open winner Sloane Stephens and the top seed, world No.24 Marie Bouzkova from the Czech Republic (pictured).
"This event is about highlighting elite female sporting talent to aspiring Tasmanian tennis stars and in Hobart to the rest of the world, and there is no more scenic venue than the Domain tennis centre with its breathk taking view of kunanyi/Mt Wellington and the River Derwent."
Hobart International Tournament Director Darren Sturgess said it was partnerships like the one with the City of Hobart that allows the event to continue.
"I would like to thank the City of Hobart, along with all our valued partners, for its ongoing support for the Hobart International," Mr Sturgess said.
"Our partnership with the city is invaluable, allowing us to put on the best event possible and showcase professional tennis to the Tasmanian public.
"After a two-year hiatus we are extremely excited to be returning with a world class field on the court, we have added initiatives and activations around the Domain Tennis Centre and are looking forward to welcoming the crowds back on site again."
Tournament qualifying will start on Saturday with the main draw to begin on Monday.
