Five-times Wimbledon champion Venus Williams will play in the Birmingham grasscourt event later this month after accepting a wildcard.
The American, 38, has never played in the competition before, but will join French Open champion Ashleigh Barty and world number one Naomi Osaka in the draw as the build-up to Wimbledon continues.
“I’m really excited to be playing in Birmingham for the first time.
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“I always love playing on grass in front of British crowds and have heard wonderful things about the tournament,” the seven-times Grand Slam singles champion said.
Czech Petra Kvitova, a double Wimbledon champion, is also playing.
Spain’s former Wimbledon champion Garbine Muguruza has withdrawn because of a left leg injury.
The tournament runs from June 15-22. (NAN)
