Kerber to defend Sydney title in January

Sydney: Wimbledon champion Angelique Kerber will defend her Sydney International title in January in preparation for next year’s Australian Open, organisers said on Friday.

The German climbed to No. 4 in the world rankings after her 6-3, 6-3 win over Serena Williams to claim her first Wimbledon title at the All England Club last week.

Kerber, who downed Australia’s Ash Barty to win this year’s Sydney International final, said the tournament will be a good tune-up for the Australian Open starting in Melbourne on January 14.

“Playing the Sydney International is always a great opportunity to face some top quality opposition,” Kerber said.