Tennis legend John McEnroe will play at the Liverpool International Tennis Tournament this summer.
The former world number one will be playing alongside both seasoned and up-and-coming tennis stars at the Tradition-ICAP tournament at Calderstones Park in June.
The enigmatic star, who now works as a broadcaster, is arguably as famous for his outbursts as for his on-court skill.
During his career, McEnroe won seven Grand Slam singles titles, three at Wimbledon and four at the US Open. He also won nine Grand Slam men's doubles titles and one Grand Slam mixed doubles title.
However he is best remembered for his shot-making artistry, confrontational on-court behavior and famous rivalries with Björn Borg, Jimmy Connors and Ivan Lendl.
McEnroe, 51, said: "I am really looking forward to returning to Liverpool to play in the International Tennis Tournament alongside other great players and young and upcoming talent.
"I like the idea of playing in a public park on grass courts in front of enthusiastic tennis fans. I still love to compete and win so I am working hard to be able to bring my very best to Liverpool this June."
Tournament Director Anders Borg said: "We are extremely excited to have such a legend of the game joining us at this year’s tournament.
"His high profile and unpredictable personality is certain to attract a great deal of interest, which we are delighted about.
"The line up for this year just indicates the prestige and consistency of the tournament and we are certain that this year will be a real spectacle for all tennis fans across the city."
Jeremy Bates, who won the first British doubles title at Wimbledon in 1987, will also be among the line-up at this year’s event.
Frenchman Paul-Henri Mathieu will headline the ATP Players’ singles event. He is currently ranked 41 in the ATP list.
The five day tournament attracts approximately 17,500 members of the general public and 2,500 corporate individuals and numbers are increasing year on year as the tournament continues to grow in popularity.
Liverpool City Leader Warren Bradley added: "The presence of such high profile players at this year’s Liverpool International Tennis Tournament adds both credibility and prestige not just to the event but also to Liverpool.
"Hosting such a top sporting event really does put Liverpool on the map and I am sure it will create a lot of excitement and anticipation across the city."
The Tradition-ICAP Liverpool International Tennis Tournament takes place from Wednesday 16th June – Sunday 20th June.
Tickets are available at www.liverpooltennis.co.uk or www.ticketmaster.co.uk and the Liverpool Echo Arena at www.echoarena.com.
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