The ASB Classic has further bolstered its strong field for the upcoming tournament with the addition of former US Open champion Emma Raducanu.
The 20-year-old Briton joins Americans Coco Gauff and Sloane Stephens, as well as her adversary in the 2021 US Open final, Canadian Leylah Ferenadez in the field for the return of the Auckland competition.
Raducanu shot to superstardom on the back of her triumph at Flushing Meadows, where she became the first player qualifier to win a Grand Slam, while breaking an almost 50-year drought for British players at Majors.
That triumph saw her garner huge celebrity off the court while her commercial appeal skyrocketed. She became the world's third highest paid female athlete in 2022.
"I'm really looking forward to coming to New Zealand," said Raducanu.
"I've heard so many good things about the tournament. It is a great way to start off the Australian Open swing.
"I have heard that the tournament in New Zealand is great for players and fans. New Zealand is known for its beautiful landscape and nature, so I hope I can get to explore some of the other beautiful parts whilst in my time there."
Plagued by injury this year, Raducanu will use the ASB Classic to help warm-up for the Australian Open and kick off her year on a positive note.
"My goals for 2023 are to again gain more experience on the Tour," she said.
"It was only my first full year in 2022 and to complete more of the year and remain injury-free as much as possible – that's my biggest goal. A really good physical foundation will hold me in good stead for the future."
Tournament director Nicola Lamperin said Raducanu's profile would be great for the competition.
"Emma is showing that she can cope with this celebrity and is now working hard on her game to prove that her US Open triumph was only an indication of her capabilities," said Lamperin.
"I am sure fans will want to throng into the ASB Tennis Arena to see her in action. It is very exciting."
