SYDNEY, October 16, 2018 (Press Release)

Reigning champion Daniil Medvedev will return to the Sydney International in January to defend the title that marked the start of a breakout 2018 season.

Tickets for the joint ATP-WTA Sydney International are now on sale, with Medvedev joining Wimbledon champion Angelique Kerber and US Open champion Naomi Osaka at Sydney Olympic Park Tennis Centre from 6 to 12 January 2019.

Rising star Medvedev, 22, has enjoyed the best season of his career this year, claiming three singles titles – including his first ATP 500 title in Tokyo – and reaching the third round at Wimbledon and the US Open.

The Russian said he is looking forward to returning to the scene of his maiden ATP title, where he began the tournament as a qualifier.

“Winning in Sydney was one of the best moments of my career so far, and I’ll never forget lifting the trophy for the first time,” Medvedev said.

“The tournament gets great crowds and the fans really know their tennis. They gave me great support all week, even when I beat their home player Alex (De Minaur) in the final. I’m looking forward to getting back to Sydney and giving my title defence my all.”

Medvedev’s victory in Tokyo propelled him to a career-high ranking of 22 and earned him another significant career milestone – he became Russia’s No.1 male player.

The title was his second as a qualifier and his second without dropping a set in the main draw, a feat he also achieved at the Winston Salem Open.

Medvedev reeled off a string of impressive victories in Tokyo, beating top-20 players Milos Raonic and Diego Schwartzman and former world No.4 Kei Nishikori in the final.

Sydney International Tournament Director Lawrence Robertson said he is delighted to welcome Medvedev back to the Harbour City.

“Daniil was a huge hit with fans here in Sydney this year, both for his big-hitting game and the modest way he goes about his business,” Robertson said.

“I’ve continued to follow Daniil’s progress throughout the year following his win here and it is clear that he is one of the future stars of the ATP Tour.

“We’re very much looking forward to welcoming our champion back and to see him defend his title here at Sydney Olympic Park.”

Sydney International 2019 multi-session and single session tickets are on sale now through the following channels:

·        Ticketek website: www.ticketek.com.au