LTA confirms National Tennis Centre as host venue for GB’s Billie Jean King Cup by BNP Paribas Play-Off tie vs. Mexico
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The LTA confirmed today that because of the ongoing uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic the National Tennis Centre will host the Billie Jean King Cup by BNP Paribas Play-Off against Mexico from 16-17 April. The tie will be played on indoor hard courts.
The ITF has already confirmed the tie will take place in April rather than February to April and choice of venue would be awarded to Great Britain. This means for third time since 2019 (having played away for 26 consecutive years) captain Anne Keothavong’s Great Britain team will have the opportunity to play on home soil.
The LTA has explored a number of venue options, but the ongoing pandemic restrictions, which are affecting spectator attendance at all sports events mean that the National Tennis Centre is the most suitable venue for the tie. There is a high likelihood that the event will be staged behind closed doors given the current restrictions, however the LTA will continue to review the situation and are keeping all options under consideration.
We look forward to bringing our A-game against a tricky Mexican side in April
Captain Anne Keothavong commented: “The LTA’s National Tennis Centre is our home away from home and the team are very familiar with both the courts and the whole venue. We look forward to bringing our A-game against a tricky Mexican side in April and hopefully can use the opportunity to qualify for the 2022 Finals.”
LTA CEO Scott Lloyd said, “We are very proud of all the events we have staged at the National Tennis Centre since last June, with 17 Behind Closed Doors tournaments providing over 1,000 matches to more than 150 players in excellent conditions. The decision to host this tie at the NTC in the current climate was the logical solution given the current restrictions. Great Britain’s Billie Jean King Cup by BNP Paribas Play-Off tie against Mexico will create a terrific showcase for women’s sport in this country over that April weekend.”
If Great Britain are victorious against Mexico, they would advance to a one-match home or away Qualifier next February to join the 12 best countries in the April 2022 Billie Jean King Cup Finals. The deadline for the team to represent GB against Mexico to be announced is 6 April.
Back the Brits
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