Te Anau 22-year-old Lulu Sun has confirmed she has switched allegiance from Switzerland to play for New Zealand.
Sun, who has a world ranking of 151, was born in New Zealand but grew up in Switzerland.
She has, however, retained tight links with Te Anau where her grandparents live, and previously represented New Zealand at junior level.
Following a strong showing at this year’s ASB Classic in Auckland, where she made it through to second round, she explored her options with Tennis New Zealand officials and has subsequently decided to switch.
She is expected to play for New Zealand as early as next month.
There is also potential for her to team up with Erin Routliffe in the doubles at the Paris Olympics in July.
Sun, who has climbed more than 60 places in the world ranking this year, is considered to have the potential to push into the top 50.
Tennis New Zealand Julie Paterson told Stuff it was a wonderful development for the sport in New Zealand.
"Lulu, alongside Erin, will be leaders for women’s tennis in New Zealand for years to come and help inspire and guide the next generation of talent coming through,’’ she said.
"We’re incredibly excited for what the next few years will bring"
