Bertens on pulling out of Adelaide International with injury ahead of Australian Open: "It was too soon after playing a lot of matches in Brisbane"

Bertens flared up an Achilles Tendon injury and pulled out of the Adelaide International having played in Brisbane but said it was purely because it was too much strain so soon.

Despite that though she was pleased with how many games she played in the lead up to the Australian Open and that for her it is a 'great start' to the season.

“It was too much to play there (in Adelaide) already, it was too soon after already playing a lot of matches in Brisbane. So I just wanted to prepare as good as I could for this tournament.

"I was really happy with the level I was playing (in Brisbane), the way I was feeling also on the court. To just get a few matches in, I think is good, especially some really tough fights. Had also lots of fun with Ash in the doubles.

“I think for me it's a great start to the season.”