Robredo adds to strong Auckland field

TommyRobredo

One of the warm-up events to the Australian Open in Melbourne, the ATP 250 tournament in Auckland is the lesser-profile of the events in Brisbane, Sydney and the Hopman Cup in Perth.

However, 2015 will see multiple champions David Ferrer (four times) and John Isner (twice, defending) return.

Other top-20 players confirmed to appear include Gael Monfils of France, Latvia's Ernests Gulbis and South African Kevin Anderson.

"We are thrilled," tournament director Karl Budge said. 

"Not only to have six top-20 players but to have such contrasting styles will ensure some quality matches.

"It's not often we have top-20 players headlining Monday and Tuesday, and this year it appears we will have some real excitement with the likes of Tommy and Gael Monfils kicking off our action."

World number 24 Philipp Kohlschreiber and Austrian rising star Dominic Thiem, ranked 39th, are among the other entrants.

Finalist in 2014, Taipei's Lu Yen-hsun - who ended Ferrer's winning streak at the tournament at 14 matches - will be looking to go one better.

Ferrer claimed the title in Auckland in 2007 and from 2011-13, with Isner winning the '10 and '14 titles.

Kohlschreiber, the '08 champion, is the only other Auckland title winner to be confirmed to appear.

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