Wimbledon champion Bartoli set for surprise return

Originally published on 01/05/14

The Frenchwoman announced her shock retirement just 40 days after winning her only Grand Slam title due to persistent injury troubles. She has played just three competitive matches since beating Sabine Lisicki in straight sets at SW19 last year. 

However, she will make a surprise return to join former British No. 1 Greg Rusedski and Virginia Wade on the grass courts at Liverpool Cricket Club this summer.

The 29-year-old, who was ranked seventh in the world when she retired, said: “I am extremely excited to be part of this year’s impressive line-up at the Liverpool Hope University International Tennis Tournament. The event has a great reputation and I am excited to be a part of it this year and to be back playing on grass.

“I am a big football fan so I am excited about visiting Liverpool for the first time and meeting some true Liverpudlians – hopefully I will have time to visit Anfield and Goodison!"

The tournament is currently in its 13th year and will be held in a purpose built stadium at Liverpool Cricket Club from June 19 to 22.

Tournament director Anders Borg said: “We have been fortunate to boast some fantastic players in the past, but this years line-up is the best yet. It is the first time that a current Wimbledon champion has been involved with the tournament and we couldn’t be happier to have been able to bring Marion to this year’s event.”

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