Australia’s number one player Samantha Stosur and former world number one Andy Roddick will return to defend their crowns at the Brisbane International.

For the third year in a row, the event will be held at the Pat Rafter Arena and organisers say it will be bigger and better than this year.

Pansy Yu reports.

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TRANSCRIPT

Brisbane International Tournament Director Steve Ayles says Brisbane is continuing the journey to take Brisbane to the world.

Securing a host of big name stars for January’s event including Sam Stosur.

Sam Stosur, Australian number one: “I am definitely looking forward to it. I managed to play there the first year when it was in Brisbane and had a great time.”

Last year’s tournament brought 66,000 fans up to 82,000 fans came this year.

Organisers are expecting even more come January, providing a major boost for tourism.

Phil Reeves, Sports Minister: “This tournament marks the beginning of the Australian open season and it is sure one of the hottest tickets in town.”

One of the exciting new additions is next year’s tournament boasts an extra 500 seats in the Arena.

Steve Ayles, Brisbane International Tournament Director: “I’d hope you agree this facility has some of the best corporate sporting facilities available anywhere in Australia.”

Steve Ayles says the tournament will be even more family friendly this year.

Steve Ayles, Brisbane International Tournament Director: “We’ve got so much more for the whole family in 2011, giant screen, grassy picnic area, more shade and we’re growing interactive zones for the kids even more.”

The event kicks off on January second.

Pansy Yu, QUT News.