American number one John Isner returning to ASB Classic in 2018

  • 12/10/2017
John Isner has won twice in Auckland in 2010 and 2014
John Isner has won twice in Auckland in 2010 and 2014 Photo credit: Getty

Former ASB Classic champion John Isner is returning to Auckland for another shot at the title in January.

The American number one has found New Zealand a happy hunting ground, having won in 2010 and 2014, while making at least the quarter-final stage in all three of his other appearances.

The 32-year-old is particularly strong on hard courts having captured two ATP titles in 2017 in Newport and Atlanta, while reaching the semi-finals at the Cincinnati Masters.

Tournament director Karl Budge said Isner is a welcome addition to the 2018 edition of the contest.

"He obviously loves playing here and we are pretty happy about that. He is an entertaining guy with massive weapons," said Budge.

"When that serve fires up it is pretty impressive. We might throw down a challenge to see if he can crack 240kp/h this year. 

"He has done it abroad before so maybe we can rally him up for one of his best here."

John Isner celebrates his 2014 title win
John Isner celebrates his 2014 title win Photo credit: Getty

Isner said returning to Auckland was a no-brainer as he looks to build towards the Australian Open one-week later.

"Auckland will always hold a special place in my heart, it's where I won my first ATP title. I love Auckland, I've always played well there and I can't wait to get back there in 2018," Isner said.

Budge isn't happy settling for Isner as his marquee signing, confirming he is still in discussions with several top 20 players; but the American is likely to be somewhere near the top of the draw.

"Obviously [Isner's signing] is great for the ASB Classic. We want top ten talent and it still remains unknown if the big fella will be our top seed for 2018," said Budge. 

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