See main article: 2011 Medibank International Sydney.
Elena Dementieva was the defending champion, but retired from the sport at the end of the 2010 season.
Li Na won the title, defeating Kim Clijsters in the final 7–6(7–3), 6–3.
The top two seeds receive a bye to the second round.
See main article: 2011 Medibank International Sydney – Women's singles qualifying.