Venus Williams Joins Player Field
Maria Sharapova withdraws from event

Williams strengthens an already star-studded line up that includes her sister, 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams, two-time Grand Slam champion Victoria Azarenka, defending tournament champion Madison Keys, 2017 singles finalist CoCo Vandeweghe and 2016 champion Johanna Konta.

“We are very excited to have Venus join our player field,” said Tournament Director Vickie Gunnasson. “She and Serena are tennis icons, and tremendous ambassadors for the sport. Having them both competing at the Mubadala Silicon Valley Classic is truly special.”

Other players to watch include World No. 15 Elise Mertens, a three-time winner this year on the WTA tour, and several young Americans looking to work their way up the rankings including Danielle Collins, Allison Riske, CiCi Bellis and Sachia Vickery.

In other tournament news, five-time Grand Slam champion Maria Sharapova has withdrawn from the event due to a change in her tournament schedule.

“I am really sorry to have to miss the event in San Jose this year. I have heard amazing things and I know all the girls are excited to come play,” said Sharapova. “Unfortunately I have been forced to make some very tough decisions at this point in my career when it comes to my tournament schedule. ‎I need to take care of my body and make sure I stay healthy. I look forward to coming to play next year.”

Formerly known as the Bank of the West Classic in Palo Alto, the Mubadala Silicon Valley Classic is a weeklong WTA Premier event bringing the worlds of tennis and technology together in a festival of sports and entertainment. The new venue at San José State University will provide a high-end, family friendly atmosphere and will put fans close to the action as they watch their favorite stars compete.

Highlighting the best the region has to offer, the tournament will showcase a complete entertainment experience including locally sourced cuisine, fine wine and cheese selections, interactive fan exhibitions, premier hospitality options, daily autograph signings, and of course, incredible tennis action.

Featuring a 28-player singles draw as well as a 16-team doubles draw the tournament will bring the best female tennis players in the world to the Bay Area and serves as the opening women’s event of the US Open Series.
for more information: www.MubadalaSVC.com .