The organisers of the 7th edition of the Waves Open 57 women's tennis tournament have announced the first competitors who will take to the courts in Moulins-les-Metz from 25 June to 3 July 2016.

In 2010, the French Tennis Federation gave the Tennis Club Moulinois de la Saussaie the go-ahead to integrate its women's tournament into the highest level French circuit, becoming the reference competition for female tennis players in eastern France. The Waves Open 57 has since been recognised with an award for "Best French Circuit Tournament" at the "Trophées du Tennis Féminin" held in November 2015 in Paris.

In total nearly 8,500 people gathered by the Moselle to watch the 2015 edition, which culminated in a generation-divided final face-off between young French hopeful Amandine Hesse and seasoned player Stéphanie Foretz, with the latter eventually claiming victory.

Both finalists will return next month, with Stéphanie Foretz competing against the likes of Mandy Minella, Mathilde Johansson, Constance Sibille and Victoria Larrière to retain her title.

Mandy Minella

At the age of 30, the Luxembourg #1, 66th in 2012, is continuing to make her mark all over the world. After coming away victorious in the 2013 edition, she will again be aiming to lift the Moulinois trophy.

Stéphanie Foretz

Today ranked world #247, she reached the 3rd round at the 2002 US Open. French #11 and former world #62 in 2003, she will be looking to win the singles and doubles again this edition.

Amandine Hesse

At the tender age of 23, the current #154 is a rising star, having reached a 2nd round at Roland Garros last year and 1st this year. She will be looking at a second chance at the title after it narrowly slipped through her fingers last year.

Mathilde Johansson

The winner of the 5th edition signed a 3rd round at the Roland Garros French Open in 2012. Currently #218 in the world, she will be making her comeback with a view to returning to the throne.

Constance Sibille

The French #17 will be trying her hand at winning the Waves Open 57 for the first time.

Victoria Larrière

At the gates of the top 100 in 2012, the current French #38 is back on the professional circuit after a 3 year hiatus following a serious injury and to study medicine. Her presence at the Waves Open 57 will form part of her comeback.

 

Photo by Waves Open 57 (2015 finalists)