US Open defending champion and 23-time Grand Slam winner to play at tournament in Toronto

Serena Williams and Emma Raducanu will prepare for the US Open with a WTA 1000 tournament in Toronto.

Both Williams and Raducanu have signed up for the Canadian Open, which will take place from August 6th to 14th.

In total, 41 of the 43 highest-ranked players on the WTA Tour will compete, including world number one and two-time Grand Slam winner Iga Świątek.

Naomi Osaka, Coco Gauff and home favourite Bianca Andreescu are also on the start list.

“When you read over that star-studded list, it’s hard not to get excited about the WTA Tour making its return to Sobeys Stadium,” said Karl Hale, Canadian Open tournament director.

“Not only is this one of the strongest, if not the strongest, player list we’ve ever submitted, but it’s also the first time in three years that the National Bank Open returns to a full capacity.

“We’re thrilled that these players will have a chance to play in front of a packed house, and we’re even happier for our fans who will get to watch tennis’ very best at the 2022 edition of the National Bank Open.”

She’s baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaack!

That’s right, our 3-time champion @serenawilliams returns to Toronto. And she likes playing here, she’s reached the semis of better the last five times she’s played. #NBO22 pic.twitter.com/3OzZsEnBIP

Williams’s inclusion means her participation at the US Open, scheduled for August 29th to September 11th, is even more likely.

The 40-year-old made her return to tennis after a year-long absence at Wimbledon, although she was defeated by Harmony Tan in the first round. Despite the loss, Williams revealed her motivation to play at next month’s Grand Slam.

“When you’re at home, especially in New York, and the US Open, that being the first place I’ve won a Grand Slam, is