Some of the world’s biggest tennis stars are heading our way this summer for the ASB Classic. This is THE ticket to have over summer – so, if you’re wondering who is coming and who to keep an eye out for, we’ve made it simple with this handy list!
When the sun came out this week (wasn’t it glorious!?!) it was such a welcome reminder that summer really is on its way. The ASB Classic will be kicking off in very early January and, they’re the hottest tickets in town (a perfect Christmas present if you know a tennis fan!).
There’s some incredible players coming this year (it’s one of the best line-ups ever), so here’s who to keep an eye out for:
Venus Williams
Ranking: 148
Socials: @venuswilliams 2m
The iconic Venus Williams is returning for her seventh appearance in Auckland. The 45-year-old has an impressive grand slam haul, with five Wimbledon titles, along with two at the US Open. The former world No. 1 first competed in Auckland in 2014, finishing as runner-up. The tournament quickly became one of her favourites, as she went on to play in five of the following six years before making her return in 2023.
Naomi Osaka
Ranking: 16
Socials: @naomiosaka 2.9m
Four-time grand slam champion Naomi Osaka is returning to complete her “unfinished business” at the ASB Classic, after being forced to retire in the final this year after winning the first set against Denmark’s Clara Tauson. Osaka is a huge fan of NZ, fitting trips to Piha Beach, Waiheke and of course a jump off the Skytower into her most recent trip.
Ben Shelton
Ranking: 6
Socials: @benshelton 1.2m
American Ben Shelton’s first overseas ATP Tour tournament was the ASB Classic in 2023, he is now ranked number 6 in the world. Him and his girlfriend; American soccer player Trinity Rodman are an ‘it’ couple when it comes to the sporting world.
Gael Monfils
Ranking: 70
Socials: @iamgaelmonfils 1.3m
Gaël Monfils is tennis’ ultimate showman. An entertainer on court, a magician, 2025 ASB Classic men’s singles champion and now taking his final bow, soon to be retiring after an impressive career.
Jakub Mensik
Ranking: 19
Socials: @mensik.jakub 110k
The youngest tennis player in the world’s top 20, Jakub Mensik, is returning to the ASB Classic in Auckland. Mensik, who has just turned 20, is the biggest mover among the world’s top 50 ranked players in 2025, and is sure to garner much support at the Manuka Doctor Arena in January.
Cam Norrie
Ranking: 27
Socials: @norriee 171k
Brit Cam Norrie grew up playing at Bucklands Beach Tennis Club and was a regular fan at the ASB Classic growing up. This year Norrie had an impressive win against Carlos Alcaraz, who at the time was world No.1, so is a player to keep your eyes on.
Lulu Sun
Ranking: 87
Socials: @lulusun 20k
24-year-old kiwi Lulu Sun has established herself as one of the brightest talents in New Zealand tennis. She says the ASB Classic is one of her favourite tournaments, as she loves to play in front of a home crowd.
Iva Jovic
Ranking: 35
Socials: @iva_jovic07 90k
Iva Jovic is the youngest American Tennis Champion, the 17-year-old won the WTA 500 Guadalajara Open in Mexico this year. She is suspected to follow a similar pathway to Coco Gauff – so is definitely one to watch!