WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - The 2018 Winston-Salem Open is underway at Wake Forest University.
It's a professional tennis tournament played on the ATP World Tour.
The tournament moved from New Haven to Winston-Salem in 2011.
It's the last men's tournament on the US Open Series prior to the US Open.
This year, the tournament is hosting 48 players at the Wake Forest Tennis Complex, a state-of-the-art tennis facility that shares the grounds with Wake Forest Athletics.
Top tennis players from around the world are expected to attend the event, including Hyeon Chung and Pablo Carreno Busta.
Belgian professional tennis player David Goffin has withdrawn from this year's event with an injury.
He's the world number 11 player and top seed at the Winston-Salem Open.
"Obviously, we are disappointed David won't be joining us this year," said Tournament Director Bill Oakes. "He's such an exciting player and has the tools to beat anyone. We love having him in Winston-Salem, but health is certainly everyone's top priority. David is a fan favorite, and I know we are all sending him the best wishes for improved health so he can finish the year strong. We look forward to seeing him compete here again."
Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta, who is currently 13 in the ATP World Tour rankings and is the 2016 Winston-Salem Open champion, will become the event's number one seed.
"Unfortunately, I will not be able to participate in the Winston- Salem Open due to a shoulder injury," said David Goffin. "It's a shame because I had very good memories of this tournament. I wanted to have more matches, and this tournament was the ideal preparation for the US Open. I hope to return to Winston-Salem and try my luck at 100%. I wish Bill Oakes much success for his tournament."
The Winston-Salem Open is a charitable non-profit whose proceeds benefit many local charities.
The primary charitable partner is the Winston-Salem Forsyth County Schools middle school athletic programs.
The tournament proceeds helped bring back Cross Country programs and expand tennis to all of the middle schools in Forsyth County.
To learn more about the 2018 Winston-Salem Open or to purchase tickets, click here.