Roll out the red clay to welcome WTA to Istanbul.

Octagon and the Turkish Tennis Federation (TTF) announced an agreement to stage a new WTA event in Istanbul, Turkey. The inaugural International level tournament in Istanbul will be staged at the Turkish Tennis Federation Tennis Center, April 20-26th.

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Highlighted by a history of hosting top-tier tennis tournaments, including the season-ending WTA Championships from 2011-2013, this year Istanbul will once again play host to the world’s elite players.

“We are delighted to announce the organization of a new WTA international tournament in Istanbul, and look forward to welcoming players and fans to the Turkish Tennis Federation Tennis Center,” said Cengiz Durmus, President, Turkish Tennis Federation. “The WTA and Octagon play an important role in the path of making Turkey a true tennis country. With the support of the Turkish Ministry of Youth and Sports, we are taking strong steps towards achieving our goals.”

Following a comprehensive and state-of-the-art renovation of the Turkish Tennis Federation Tennis Center, which includes all-new clay courts and tournament infrastructure, the new WTA tournament will be the first pro event held at the historic club since its renovation.

“We look forward to working with the Turkish Tennis Federation and Octagon on building a very special WTA tournament in Istanbul,” said Steve Simon, WTA Chairman and CEO. “Istanbul has been home to many WTA events and we are pleased to continue the tradition of hosting the world’s best tennis players in Istanbul as we embark on an exciting new season.”

Photo credit: Turkish Tennis Federation Instagram-tenisfederasyonu