Williams leads field at Moorilla
Williams leads field at Moorilla 
Former Australian Captain November 30, 2006
TENNIS superstar Serena Williams is set to draw the crowds in the strongest field ever assembled for the Moorilla Hobart International tournament.
Ten of the world’s top 50 female tennis players have signed on for the event, including Russian world No.13 Anna Chakvetadze and defending champion Michaella Krajicek.
Tournament director Michael Roberts launched the event today, telling media he was “thrilled” with the field.
“Having Serena here is fantastic,” he said.
“It’s the biggest thing that’s happened to tennis in Tasmania and … she’s one of the best sports stars to ever come to Tasmania so having her is a phenomenal achievement.”
The seven-time grand slam singles winner’s appearance has already sparked an early rush on tickets, with six times as many sold compared to this time last year.
The 25-year-old American enters the Hobart tournament on a wildcard and will be looking for some solid performances in Tasmania to take her into the Australian Open.
Prize money for the Hobart International has increased to $US170,000 ($217,405) this year and Roberts said it was reflected in the strength of the field.
Chakvetadze is the highest ranked player to have competed in Hobart.
The 19-year-old Russian has beaten three top 10 players during her world rankings climb.
Dutchwoman Michaella Krajicek (No.35) will return to defend her Hobart title.
The 17-year-old, who will celebrate her birthday during the tournament, lost only one set from five matches during this year’s event.
Spaniard Anabel Medina Garrigues (No.27), a finalist at Hobart in 2002, is the second-highest ranked woman playing.
Former world No.6 and Hobart champion Chanda Rubin (with an injury-protected ranking of 29) will be keen to start the year on a winning note after an injury-plagued 2006.
The Moorilla Hobart International will be held from January 5 to 12.
AAP