Four-time champion Lleyton Hewitt and Britain’s James Ward have been handed wildcards for the Aegon Championships at Queen’s Club.
The 31-year-old Australian triumphed at Queen’s in 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2006. In 2002, Hewitt completed a grass-court double, defeating Tim Henman in the final at Queen’s, and then David Nalbandian in the Wimbledon final.
“I’m really looking forward to returning to the Aegon Championships at Queen’s this year after a couple of years away, and I appreciate having been given the wild card,” said Hewitt.
“It’s been one of my favourite tournaments throughout my career, and to be alongside John McEnroe, Boris Becker and Andy Roddick in having won the title four times is a thrill.
“It’s going to be great to come back after my injury and go straight out onto the best grass courts in the world, and then hopefully have Wimbledon to look forward to after that. I can’t wait.”
British No2 Ward reached the semi-finals at Queen’s last year, where he was defeated by Jo Wilfried-Tsonga, who was beaten by Andy Murray in the final.
“I’m really happy and grateful to have been given a wild card into the Aegon Championships,” said Ward.
“Reaching the semi-finals last year was a fantastic experience – the best of my career so far, and I’m going to give it everything I’ve got to try to make the most of what is a great opportunity.”
The Aegon Championships take place from 11-17 June at Queen’s Club in London.