AO finalists to play at Brisbane

SYDNEY. World No. 3 Novak Djokovic and French star Jo-Wilfried Tsonga —the finalists in this year's Australian Open— will top the draw at the Brisbane International, organisers said Wednesday. Former world No. 1 and reigning French Open champion Ana Ivanovic was named as the top drawcard among the women competing at the inaugural event to be held in the lead-up to the Australian Open. Djokovic said the January event would be a key part of his preparation to retain the Australian Open title he won in a dramatic four-set victory over Tsonga in Melbourne in January. “It is the perfect way to begin my Australian campaign,” the Serb said. “It is going to be great to renew my acquaintance with the very supporting Australian fans,” he said in a statement. Tsonga said he was looking forward to returning Down Under.