Defending champion Tatjana Maria says she is surprised that she is not awarded a wildcard to defend her Queen’s Club women’s title. Maria, 37, won the first women’s event at Queen’s since 1973 last year, and multiple reports say she expected her reigning status to be recognised with a direct entry. She does not receive a wildcard and instead has to play through qualifying in west London, where she succeeds in winning back-to-back matches to reach the main draw. The reports also note that the wildcard spots are given to four British players, who are lower-ranked than Maria. Although Maria questions the decision, she also acknowledges the atmosphere at Queen’s Club, describing being overwhelmed by positive support from members following the snub. Overall, the story focuses on Maria’s reaction to the wildcard selection process and her subsequent effort to secure a place in the tournament after coming through qualifying.