Former world No.39 Casey Dellacqua will begin her summer of tennis on home soil by headlining the start of the new Australian Pro Tour season next month.   

This year’s French Open mixed doubles champion will lead a host of established international players and local stars at the Cairns Tennis International commencing Monday 12 September.     

After being sidelined by injury in late 2010, Dellacqua enjoyed a promising return this year by claiming five titles (one singles and four doubles) on the Australian Pro Tour before tasting success at Roland Garros.   

“The Pro Tour was the perfect preparation this year before the French Open and I can’t wait to begin another summer of tennis back home,” said Dellacqua.

“It’s really important for me to work hard, get a few matches under my belt and hopefully win a couple more titles this year.”             

Cairns Regional Mayor Val Schier said Dellacqua’s presence would further enhance the event as a spectacle and as an inspiration to local youngsters.

“Our many young tennis players will be rapt to see such talent in action in their home town,” Cr Schier said.

“The Far North has been a breeding ground for many elite sportspeople and the ability to host sporting events such as this further encourages locals to strive for sporting success.

“Also, the Cairns Tennis International further cements Cairns’ reputation as a major sporting event centre, capable of attracting big names and big events.”

Cr Schier added that the Cairns Tennis International had been named as a regional winner and national finalist for the Events Award by Parks and Leisure Australia.

Tournament Director Mark Handley was looking forward to seeing Dellacqua compete in Australia once again.

“Casey has enjoyed great success on the Australian Pro Tour throughout her career and it’s great to welcome her back again as she continues her rise up the rankings,” Handley said.

“We’re excited to begin another season of the Australian Pro Tour and to have players like Casey alongside emerging national talent will be great for local communities and tennis fans around the country.”    
 
The 2011–2012 Australian Pro Tour will feature a series of international events that act as a springboard to the global tennis stage by providing vital ranking points and experience for the tennis stars of tomorrow.