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Tournament Preview: Eastbourne


 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 14:14

What’s it all about? The WTA event is the most prestigious women’s grass-court tournament in that two-week window between Roland Garros and Wimbledon.

When’s it happening? Main draw matches start on Monday June 16 through to finals day on Sunday June 22.

Where is it? Devonshire Park, College Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 4JJ.

Why should I go there? Eastbourne’s Devonshie Park is one of the finest tennis facilities – particularly for spectators – in the UK after Wimbledon, and has a tournament of equally prestigious stature. There are not many grass-court tournaments before the trip to SW19, and Eastbourne hosts perhaps the strongest field as the big names prime their games for grass.

The club is in the heart of leafy Eastbourne, and is a tennis ball throw away from the town centre and seafront, and makes for a great day out in itself.

Who can I see this year? Ana Ivanovic might have pulled out but there is still a star-studded line-up heading to Eastbourne this summer. The other top seeds Vera Zvonareva (World No.12), Agnieszka Radwanska (15), Victoria Azarenka (17), Shahar Peer (18) and Alize Cornet (20) will be joined by Brits Mel South and Katie O’Brien after they pair were given wildcards for their performances in Edgbaston. Former world No.1s Amelie Mauresmo and Lindsay Davenport are also in town.

How do I get tickets? They’re still on sale. Either call the box office on 01323 412000 or go down to the box office in person: Central Box Office, Congress Theatre, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP

How do I get there? The LTA has the best advice ready for you.

What’s the weather like? We’re getting closer to Wimbledon. Read into that what you will…

Can I follow it online? Draws and results can be found online on the blog or two.

Little known fact… A guide to Devonshire Park dated 1893 describes “a music garden with facilities for cricket, tennis, racquets and roller skating,” as well as a ladies’ cycle academy. The first major tennis championships were held here in 1881.

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Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.