AUCKLAND, January 10, 2017

The ASB Classic, held from 9 to 14 January 2017, is the biggest men’s professional sporting event in New Zealand, held in Auckland since 1956. It is a hugely popular stop on the ATP World Tour amid the breathtaking scenery of the country.

It is also a key tournament for the top players since it falls the week before the Australian Open. It provides the perfect preparations for the first Grand Slam of the year. Hardly surprising then that the roll of honour features some of the biggest names in tennis with a trio of former World No. 1s – Björn Borg, Gustavo Kuerten and Marcelo Rios – all former champions.

David Ferrer went on to reach the Melbourne semi-finals in 2011 and 2013 after winning two of his four Auckland titles. He is the tournament’s third seed in 2017. This year’s line-up is led by defending champion Roberto Bautista-Agut from Spain.

Tuesday Impressions: