With a little over a month to go before the start of the Nature Valley Open begins in Nottingham, the women’s field has been confirmed for the LTA summer grass court event which runs 8-16 June.
There are two former winners returning for 2019 as World No.9 and last year’s champion Ashleigh Barty is joined by Donna Vekic who won in 2017.
Barty already has a WTA title to her name this season, winning the prestigious Miami Open, and she won three vital Fed Cup games last month to help Australia to their first final since 1993.
Eight of the field have been in the world’s top 20 including Caroline Garcia and Kristina Mladenovic, who were doubles grand slam champions at the French Open in 2016.
Garcia and Mladenovic – reunited on court for the first time in two-and-a-half-years – combined to take France to the Fed Cup final with victory in the deciding doubles game against Romania recently.
The home contingent is led by British No.1 Johanna Konta and Katie Boulter, who were part of GB’s successful Fed Cup squad that won promotion to the World Group in April.
Qualifying and main draw wildcards will be confirmed closer to the start of the event.
Tournament Director, Rebecca James, said: “We are excited by this year’s line-up and I am sure the spectators are looking forward to some top-class tennis.
“Having the past two champions back is fantastic and it is great to have representation from GB’s successful Fed Cup team.
“As ever, we have special themed days including the Family Fun Weekend and Ladies’ Day, so there will be something for everyone across the tournament.
“The Nature Valley Open is a chance for anyone to see top-class players in action at a friendly and welcoming venue.”
The Nature Valley Open takes place at the Nottingham Tennis Centre from 8 June 2019 – centre court ticket prices start from just £10 for children under 16 and £21 for adults.
To purchase tickets or to access more information about the Nature Valley Open, head to www.lta.org.uk/naturevalleyopen.
Follow @lta on Instagram, @LTA – Tennis for Britain on Facebook or @the_LTA on Twitter to keep up to date with the players’ journeys to the grass courts of Nottingham this summer.