Photos from Stanford: Big names galore at the Bank of the West Classic

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Wilson Blade 9

With the clay and grass seasons in the bank, the WTA moves on to US hardcourts, and like every year, the 2017 US swing kicks off in Stanford with one of the longest-running women’s tennis events.

Held since 1971, the Bank of the West Classic has seen its share of tennis greatness in the past 40+ years and 2017 will be no exception as the tournament boasts a packed draw for this year’s edition.

On paper, Garbine Muguruza is the biggest name to play in Stanford this year, fresh off her second Grand Slam title at Wimbledon. The most popular player in the draw is not even ranked in the Top 100 though, as Maria Sharapova resumes her comeback this week, after being locked out of the grass season with a muscular tear sustained all the way back in Rome.

Moreover, Petra Kvitova has taken a wildcard into the event, joining American stars Madison Keys and CiCi Bellis. Unfortunately, the tournament will have to do without Victoria Azarenka, who had to withdraw with a viral illness on Friday.

Saturday in Stanford was all about preparation for star players and Maria Sharapova spent two hours on the practice court while the qualifying was going on.

Keep checking back to Women’s Tennis Blog all week long for all the latest from the Bank of the West Classic!

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