2021 US Open runner-up, Leylah Fernandez, has signed up for January's ASB Classic in Auckland
Laylah Fernandez. Photo: Chryslene Caillaud
The Canadian No.1, who has just turned 20, is currently ranked 38th in the world, but was ranked as high as 13 as recently as August.
Fernandez, who defended her WTA title at Monterrey this year, joins other young players on the rise to commit to ASB Classic, including Coco Gauff, Cam Norrie and Casper Ruud.
Tournament director, Nicolas Lamperin, said it is an exciting time for the event.
"Leylah is among the brilliant young players emerging on the world scene, several of whom want to come back to New Zealand where they have enjoyed their experiences before.
"The tournament is back after three years and the quality of players we have announced is outstanding, with more to come.
"Our organising team is fully focussed on delivering a wonderful experience for fans, who are now able to secure tickets.
"The pre-sales have been at a level higher than anyone can remember and we would recommend that fans act swiftly to avoid disappointment. If you want to buy the perfect Christmas present for the family, why not a day or two at the tennis?"
Lamperin said he is thrilled to have attracted Fernandez to the tournament.
"Leylah was the first Canadian for 10 years to win a Junior Grand Slam, and she qualified for the Australian Open as a 17-year-old.
"Her breakthrough was last year when she won her first WTA title at Monterrey, and she enjoyed three wins over world top-10 players on her way to making the final of the US Open last year, and this year made the quarterfinals at the French Open."
Tickets for the ASB Classic are on sale from midday on Tuesday.