The ambitious project to put a roof over the centre court at Auckland’s tennis arena on Stanley St has taken a considerable step forward. Video / Herald NOW
New Zealand’s top women’s tennis player Lulu Sun is hoping to use the 2026 ASB Classic as a springboard to get her career back on track after a challenging year on the court.
The 24-year-old has been confirmed as the first women’s player for the tournament, which runs from January5-11, with the men’s event taking place the following week, from January 12-17.
After climbing to No 39 in the world following a run to the 2024 Wimbledon quarter-finals and the final of the Monterrey Open, Sun struggled with a persistent injury which then impacted the start of her 2025 campaign.
That saw her suffer a shock first-round exit at Auckland’s Stanley St in December, losing to Canadian veteran Rebecca Marino in three sets.
Sun now sits at No 145 in the world but believes the ASB Classic will provide the platform needed to soar back inside the top 100.
“This year, I had expectations and put a lot of pressure on myself, especially earlier in the year. I am looking to get back to that consistency,” she said.
Lulu Sun in action at the ASB Classic at the end of December. Photo / Dean Purcell
“After injury early in the year, there was a lot of things that were all over the place. It’s not been the easiest of season.
“Last year was my best season and this year I have been struggling. My goal is to get things back on track and back into the top 100.”
ASB Classic tournament director Nicolas Lamperin told the Herald that securing New Zealand’s No 1-ranked singles player is vital.
“She had such a big season in 2024. Obviously 2025, it’s been a bit more difficult, but she’s such a great talent and we have every confidence that she’s going to get back where ... she belongs,” Lamperin said.
When she had a breakthrough in 2024, everything started in Auckland. She came through qualifiers, won two rounds in the main draw and reached the third round.
“I think it gave her the energy and the confidence for the rest of the season,” Lamperin said.
More big names are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
