Nine of the world’s top 100 ranked players are set to compete at the AEGON GB Pro-Series in Barnstaple.
World rankings range from 67 to 239, making this year’s line up the strongest field yet.
Leading the pack is Sweden’s Johanna Larsson who will be hoping to mount a successful defence of her 2009 singles and doubles titles.
The defending champion will face stiff competition from a talented pool including the 2009 runner-up, current world number 97, Pauline Parmentier from France.
The heightened interest from the world’s elite reflects the tournaments growing reputation amongst the players on the WTA Tour and the decision to upgrade the prize money from last year to $75k.
Rebecca James, Lawn Tennis Association’s (LTA) Tournament Director said;
“It’s fantastic to see such a strong field for Barnstaple which totally eclipses anything we have had here before. To have nine of the world’s top 100 women’s players on the acceptance list is great news for the tournament and will ensure tough competition of a high standard, which all the spectators will enjoy.
“The Tarka Tennis Centre and the local community show great support for this event and having such a high calibre of players will help to raise the profile of this AEGON GB Pro Series event even further.”
Britain’s Anne Keothavong is resting a re-occurring hip problem but is hoping to return to action in time for Barnstaple.
The British number 3 will pose a real threat to the defending champion after knocking the Swede out in the quarter finals on her way to winning in 2008.
The event also welcomes the return of two former Junior Grand Slam Champions. Kristina Mladenovic from France and Ksenia Pervak from Russia, are among the youngest competitors in the field and won the 2009 Junior French Open and Junior Australian Open respectively.
Twenty-four players representing thirteen countries have registered their interests in the event which runs from 4th to 10th October and takes place at the Tarka Tennis Centre. The final main draw will be confirmed on 21st September.
Tickets are available online at www.barnstapleopen.net or from the Tarka Tennis Centre, Seven Brethren Bank, Barnstaple on 01271 377701.