Tsonga to headline ASB Classic

MANILA, Philippines – The ASB Classic will be making history, and Philippine Maverick Jo-Wiflried Tsonga is among its bannermen.

 

For the first time in 35 years, the ASB Classic women's WTA tourney will be merged with the men's ATP tiff. The contest will be dubbed as the ASB Classic starting January next year.

 

Tsonga is selected by the ASB Classic to headline its men's and side of the draw, Yahoo News Australia reported.

 

The Frenchman, who is a former Top-5 and an Australian Open finalist, has 11 ATP tour tiles under his belt. 

 

Among Tsonga's noteworthy achievements is  being one of the three active netters to defeat the game's "big four" of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray at Grand Slam events.

 

Joining the World No. 19 is former World No. 1 Venus Williams.

 

"The ASB Classic has a proud history of attracting some of the world’s best players to New Zealand," ASB Chief Executive Barbara Chapman was quoted in the report. "The event is acknowledged by players and fans as a highlight on the women’s and men’s global tours. 

 

Tsonga is also set to join Venus' sister Serena in the Philippine Mavericks crew who are set to see action in the International Premier Tennis League December this year.

 

(Sources from Philstar.com and Philippinemavericks.com)