SANTA PONSA, May 18, 2016
2008 French Open champion Ana Ivanovic, 1998 Roland Garros winner Carlos Moya and Toni Nadal, one of the most popular Majorcan as well as coach and uncle of Rafael Nadal stepped into action to officially open the new Santa Ponsa Tennis Club. On Tuesday, the trio hit first balls on the grass court, which is supposed to meet the highest Wimbledon standards. They also used the same balls.
“Without the support from the All England Lawn Tennis Club, it would have been impossible to create such an unique venue with six grass courts as well as five hard courts,” explained Edwin Weindorfer, organizer of the new $250,000 WTA Mallorca Open, held from 13 to 19 June 2016.
Garbine Murguruza will headline the inaugural edition joined by more than 10 players from the top 50. Ana Ivanovic as well as a “German Armada” will also come to the Balearic Island.
When Ivanovic was 14 years-old she spent some time in Mallorca in order to participate in training camps. As a former world number one, she has returned to the Spanish island and lives in her own appartment.
First serves on centre court
“I am really looking forward to playing here. The island is one of the most popular spots in Europe and attracts players to compete in perfect conditions. I do have a holiday home here, so I have a special preference for the island. I can only recommend to everyone to discover the beauty of the island,” the 28-year-old Belgrade native told.
“I am really happy that e/motion and the WTA made it possible to put this spectacular grass court event on the tennis calendar. I try to be as involved as possible to lead this tournament to success. I am convinced that the venue will also benefit from the women’s tournament with a special Wimbledon flair.”
Carlos Moya will also remain part of the event. The former world number one will compete in an exhibition tournament, called “Toni Nadal Trohy”, which is going to be held on “Super-Monday”, 20th June. Austrian youngster Dominic Thiem, Germany’s number one Philipp Kohlschreiber and Spanish top-player Feliciano López will join the veteran.
Further information via http://www.mallorcaopen.org
