Reigning French Open champion Rafael Nadal will tune up his game ahead of the Wimbledon Championships at the Aspall Tennis Classic in Hurlingham next week.
The world No.2 has confirmed that he will play at the exhibition event, which is situated on the north bank of the River Thames in London. During its 25-year history, the event has featured an array of top names from both the men’s and women’s tour. Last year Maria Sharapova, Grigor Dimitrov, and Lucas Pouille all played. The tournament is run by management group IMG.
“I am always happy to play at The Hurlingham Club and be close to UK tennis fans. It is a prestigious ground in one of the best settings in the UK, making it the perfect way to warm up for Wimbledon.” Nadal said in a statement.
Joining Nadal is this year’s edition will be Nick Kyrgios, Marin Cilic, Lucas Pouille and Felix Auger-Aliassime. More names could also be added to the entry list in the coming days. For Nadal, it will be his eighth appearance in Hurlingham. In 2018 he scored a win over Australia’s Matthew Ebden, before losing to Pouille.
“The Aspall Tennis Classic is one of the most unique and wonderful tournaments in the country, set on the stunning 42-acre grounds of The Hurlingham Club. The tournament offers spectators the chance to watch some of the world’s best players in an intimate environment as they play in a series of singles exhibition matches. It’s the perfect warm up to Wimbledon.” Said Charlie grave from IMG.
Nadal has opted not to play an ATP tournament on the grass prior to Wimbledon. A common approach he has taken in recent years. He will be bidding to win the grand slam title for the third time in his career and the first since 2010.
The Aspall Tennis Classic will get underway on Tuesday.
