Video: Review of the 2015 Aegon Open Nottingham
Caroline Wozniacki and Victoria Azarenka have both been announced as players in the 2016 Aegon Open Nottingham.
The two former world number ones are also joined by British number two Heather Watson and 21 year-old world number 24 Madison Keys.
The women’s tournament will be held at Nottingham Tennis Centre in Lenton on July 4-12.
Danish superstar Wozniacki is a two-time US Open finalist who will be looking to add to her collection of 23 WTA Tour titles.
Wozniacki said: “I’m delighted to be playing in Nottingham this summer as I have heard some great things about the event and the courts there.
“The grass court season is one of my favourite times of the year and the British fans always make a great atmosphere.
“It will be exciting to play this event for the first time and discover a new city.”
Two-time Australian Open winner Azarenka will make her debut in the city later this year and will be looking to prepare well for Wimbledon and improve on her best result of a semi-final, achieved twice.
Azarenka said: “I know the tournament was new to the calendar last year and I’ve heard great things from other players.
“They highlighted the atmosphere, the city and what great preparation it was for the grass court season ahead.”
British number two and three-time WTA Tour winner Heather Watson starts her grass court season in Nottingham and will be playing a high quality field.
Watson said: “I was sorry to have to miss the event last year through injury and I’m looking forward to starting my grass court season there.
“Playing tennis in front of home fans is one of the best experiences in the game and I had some incredible moments on grass last year and want to do even better in 2016.”
Madison Keys has also been announced and has a good record of playing on grass with her first WTA title coming at the 2014 Aegon International in Eastbourne.
She will be making her Nottingham debut and will be looking to improve on her best Wimbledon performance of a quarter final.
They will provide great entertainment
Tournament director Rebecca James is “delighted” with the names that have signed up to the event.
She said: “It is great news for the tournament as all are engaging characters and will provide great entertainment for fans coming to watch.
“The player field this year shows that the tournament is growing in reputation after a great first year in 2015.
“I am excited at the prospect of some great tennis and I can’t wait to welcome everyone to Nottingham.”
