$8 million impact expected from Billie Jean King Cup in Asheville

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — The Billie Jean King Cup returns to Asheville this weekend. Team USA will face Ukraine in a qualifying tie Friday and Saturday, April 15-16, made up of singles and doubles matches at Harrah's Cherokee Center - Asheville.

“It’s an amazing honor to be here supporting and playing for team USA,” player Shelby Rogers said.

Players from the U.S. and Ukraine were on court for their first practice Tuesday. USA Team Captain Kathy Rinaldi said they are excited to be back in Western North Carolina, as Asheville has hosted the event three times in the last five years.

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“We feel welcomed, the hospitality is incredible," Rinaldi said. "We love Asheville, its such a great city, the restaurants and the shops, but especially the people."

Megan Rose, managing director of major events for the U.S. Tennis Association, said it’s no coincidence the Billie Jean King Cup is back in Asheville this year.

“It’s always been an incredible market for us, with incredible support and huge community support and outreach every time we’ve been here,” she said.

Explore Asheville expects an $8 million economic impact from the Billie Jean King Cup this year.

“That’s great for local businesses, including restaurants and retail, breweries, shops and the like,” said Explore Asheville President & CEO Vic Isley.

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The Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission said the Billie Jean King Cup helps build the city’s resume for attracting other major sporting events.

“I think it just continues to show that Asheville is a sports destination and we have a great venue that can attract events,” said Demp Bradford, president of the commission.

Tickets are still available for matches on Friday and Saturday. A portion of ticket sales will be donated to a Ukraine Crisis Relief Fund through the Tennis Plays for Peace Initiative.