Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams is returning to Auckland for the ASB Classic.
Williams has three times been ranked number one player in the world and has captured 49 WTA singles titles, the second most of any active player (behind sister Serena), 14 major doubles titles and four Olympic Gold Medals.
The 38 year-old is currently ranked 16th in the world and captured the Auckland title in 2015 after reaching the final the previous year.
She played in Auckland for four straight years before skipping this year's event to take part in the Sydney International.
"It's great to have Venus back. She has been a special part of this tournament for a number of years and we missed her this year," said Tournament Director Karl Budge.
