Leading duo confirm Sydney attendance

Li Na and Caroline Wozniacki have confirmed their places at January’s Sydney International.

Li has a good recent pedigree in the event, having beaten Kim Clij-sters for the 2011 title in Sydney before she fell to Victoria Azarenka at the final hurdle earlier this year.

And the world number seven from China is relishing the opportunity to prepare for the Australian Open against a strong field.

“Two years ago I won the Sydney title and it gave me a lot of confidence leading into Melbourne,” Li said.

“The final against Kim in 2011 was one of the best experiences in my whole life.

“I’ve been there the last two years and played very well so I am really looking forward to coming back again.”

Former world number one Wozniacki is also set to join Li and Australian Samantha Stosur at the Sydney event.

Dane Wozniacki, who is ranked 10th in the world, ended the season with wins in Seoul and Moscow.

Sydney International tournament director Craig Watson is delighted to have Li and Wozniacki returning.

“We announced our strongest men’s line-up in years for the 2013 event and I am delighted to add two of the most popular players on the women’s tour, both ranked in the world’s top 10, to our field ensuring we will again have an extremely strong and talented women’s draw in Sydney.”

The Sydney International is scheduled to run from January 6 to 12, 2013.