Defending Champion Elena Dementieva
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     The week of April 5-11 will mark the 25th consecutive year that the top-ranked women's tennis players in the world have made a stop on Amelia Island, making it the oldest U.S. event on the WTA tour held at the same venue without interruption.
     Since 1980, the names of the champions at Amelia Island Plantation reads like a "Who's Who" of tennis history: Martina Navratilova, Chris Evert, Zina Garrison, Steffi Graf, Gabriela Sabatini, Aranxta Sanchez Vicario, Lindsay Davenport, Monica Seles and Venus Williams just to name a few.
     The 2004 event will feature a draw of 56 players competing for $585,000 in prize money. At presstime, the player field included the top-ranked player in the world, Justine Henin-Hardenne, former #1 player Serena Williams and defending Bausch & Lomb Champion Elena Dementieva. More commitments will be announced closer to the tournament date.

Justine Henin-Hardenne
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     The Bausch & Lomb Championships is a favorite WTA tour stop for players and fans alike due to the beautiful setting and relaxed atmosphere. In addition to watching excellent tennis, fans can experience a FunZone featuring interactive games for kids and adults, take the BellSouth FastServe Challenge to test the speed of your serve, or get your favorite player's autograph.

1997 champion Lindsay Davenport
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     In celebration of the tournament's 25-year history, some special events are planned, including a "Parade of Champions" on Tuesday night, April 6; and a tribute to Martina Navratilova, the tournament's first champion and the greatest player in women's tennis history on Friday, April 9.
     Tickets can be ordered by calling (800) 486-8366. For the most up-to-date information on player commitments and schedule of play, visit www.blchamps.com.