The ASB Classic has confirmed New Zealand’s No.1 women’s player, Lulu Sun, will compete in the 2026 edition of the women’s tournament.

Sun is the first female player named for WTA Week at the ASB Classic at the Manuka Doctor Arena in Auckland from 5-11 January.

The 24-year-old has established herself as one of the brightest talents in New Zealand tennis, known for her athleticism, fighting spirit, and ability to inspire crowds with her all-court game.

Sun said she is thrilled to return to the ASB Classic, which is both a homecoming and an opportunity.

“This means everything to me. I get to play in front of a home crowd and fans. It is going to be energising and it’s going to be fun,” said Sun. “I am biased, but it is pretty much my favourite tournament of the year.”

While 2025 has been a testing season, with results not always reflecting her true ability, Sun remains a player capable of challenging the very best.

“Tennis careers are never a straight line. Every great player goes through periods of ups and downs, but Lulu has the resilience and determination to come through stronger,” said ASB Classic Tournament Director Nicolas Lamperin. “We are delighted to welcome her back to Auckland, where she will once again have the support of our wonderful Kiwi fans.”

After climbing to giddy heights in 2024 where she reached No 39 on the WTA world rankings, Sun has been unable to hold on to the reins this year.

“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,” said Sun.

While Sun has long-term goals, she does not want to put herself under the same level of pressure.

“Last year I came into the WTA tournaments as a new player. 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. My goal is to get things back on track and back into the top 100.”

Lamperin said the ASB Classic has long been a platform where players have rediscovered their form and launched into successful seasons.

“Players like Amanda Anisimova and Naomi Osaka, who just reached the finals and semifinals at the US Open, are players in recent years who have come via the ASB Classic to build their way back to the top end of the sport,” said Lamperin. “Likewise Clara Tauson began her rise with the win over Osaka at the ASB Classic final this year and has gone on to move inside the world’s top-15.

“For Lulu, the 2026 tournament will be the perfect stage to begin her resurgence to the top and remind fans of the talent that made her New Zealand’s top-ranked player who reached the Wimbledon quarterfinals in 2024.”

This summer, the ASB Classic welcomes a bold new look, bringing more colour, energy and style to every corner of the tournament. Fans can look forward to a buzzing atmosphere, refreshed menus, a wider range of food and beverage options, and lively partner activations, capturing the very best of summer in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland.

Making its debut in 2026 is the VIP Pōhutukawa Terrace, offering sensational centre-court views, a covered terrace with padded seating, and the introduction of in-seat food and beverage service. The fan experience is also getting a major upgrade with improved terraces, shaded areas, and the brand new Robinson Stand, delivering more space to relax, dine and mingle, all with enhanced sightlines of the on-court action.

Tickets are on sale now from https://asbclassic.flicket.co.nz – including tickets and hospitality opportunities for both the WTA and ATP events.