Milos Raonic has become the latest player to be confirmed for the star-studded Aegon Championships in June.
The world No.5 settled for runner up at the tournament last year in what what his first ever ATP final on the grass. He was denied the title by Andy Murray, who battled back to win in three sets. This time round Raonic is eager for revenge as he bids to become the first Canadian winner at the Queen’s Club since Henry Mayes in 1927.
“Having reached the final of the Aegon Championships last year I really want to go one better this time,” said Raonic.
“It’s a great tournament with more than a century of history, so to be so close to victory last year was a really special experience.”
In last year’s final, Raonic was leading the world No.1 with a 7-6, 3-1, advantage before being pegged back by the home favourite. Nine months have past since the clash, but the Canadian still regrets his missed opportunity.
“I feel like, as well as Andy played in the final, it’s one that got away from me and I want to try to put that right this year.” Raonic explained.
“It is also a great way to be in the best shape on grass as Andy and I showed last year by reaching the Wimbledon final three weeks after Queen’s last year.”
Tournament director Stephan Farrow has welcomed the return of the 27-year-old. In a statement Farrow praised Raonic’s performance at the 2016 tournament.
“Milos won over everyone with his run to the Aegon Championships final last year and the grace with which he accepted defeat, and we are delighted that he is going to be back with us this year to try to go one better.”
Raonic’s mission of claiming the title will not be an easy task in a field packed with the world’s best. Grand Slam champions Murray, Rafael Nadal and Stan Wawrinka has confirmed their participation in the ATP 500 event. In addition, 2014 Champion Grigor Dimitrov will also play at the tournament.
This year’s Aegon Championships will be the 114th edition of the tournament. It will take place between June 19th-25th with 8000 tickets already sold for the London tennis extravaganza. This year the capacity of the centre court has been expanded by 30%, increasing the seating by more than 2000.
