Sharapova won Wimbledon in 2004, three weeks after winning at Edgbaston

Maria Sharapova is due to return to Birmingham next month for the Aegon Classic at the Edgbaston Priory club as part of her preparation for Wimbledon.

The 22-year-old former Wimbledon champion won the Edgbaston title in 2004 and 2005.

"Birmingham is a really special tournament for me and I always get great support," said Sharapova.

"I've won there twice before and I always feel very welcome. It's excellent preparation for Wimbledon."

Sharapova first appeared at Edgbaston in 2003 as a 17-year-old and, after emerging from the qualifying rounds, reached the semi-finals.

In 2004 she beat Tatiana Golovin in the final and defended the title the following year in a three-set match against Jelena Jankovic.

The AEGON Classic runs from 8-14 June.

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