Maria Sharapova has signed a deal with the Lawn Tennis Association to play at Birmingham's Aegon Classic for the next two years.
The 30-year-old former world number one has been given a wildcard for the event in June having fallen down the world rankings after a 15-month drugs ban.
The LTA says it is not paying the Russian an appearance fee.
"This wasn't a decision we took lightly and not everyone will agree with it," said LTA chief Michael Downey.
More to follow.