KEY POINTS:
The long term future of Auckland's ASB Tennis Classic is secure following a string of big announcements this afternoon.
Organisers have unveiled gardening company Zealandia as a new supporting partner. The firm has contributed $500,000 to ensure a license for the Classic on the new 55 tournament WTA Tour.
New ASB Classic tournament director Brenda Perry says it is an historic day. She says the tour has undergone some major changes and nothing was guaranteed so this is great news.
The ASB Classic prize money will rise from $185,000 to $288,000, while there will be increased rankings points available. Classic organisers will also be permitted to chase a player ranked inside the world's top ten.
- NEWSTALK ZB
