World number one Iga Swiatek from Poland has confirmed her participation in the Berlin tennis tournament in mid-June. Tournament director Barbara Rittner confirmed this on Wednesday at a press conference in the capital. Swiatek is “of course the absolute top favorite,” said Rittner.
Overall, the 51-year-old said she was very proud of the starting field. According to the current status, not only Swiatek, but also nine players from the top 10 in the world are taking part in the grass event in Grunewald. Also – with a top 20 wildcard – the German tennis star Angelique Kerber and the Japanese Naomi Osaka.
In order to avoid the risk of top players canceling at short notice, the field of participants was reduced to 28. The stars could enter the tournament a little later, explained Rittner. At the event from June 15th to 23rd, the players will also prepare for the Grand Slam tournament in Wimbledon, which begins on July 1st.
The 51-year-old accused the Berlin Senate of a lack of support. Tennis is one of the flagship sports for women. “I have the feeling that this is not being seen by the Berlin side. I actually think that the tournament is being rejected,” said Rittner.
There is no financial support in Berlin like in other cities. It is difficult to even get into conversation with the Senate about this. “It would just be a total shame if we lost this tournament due to a lack of support from all sides,” she said.
Broadcast: The Day, May 15, 2024, 7:15 p.m
2024-05-15 12:04:00
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