Bjorn Borg has signed on as a patron of the Legends Team Cup, with organisers saying the inaugural edition of the competition will be a "defining moment" in tennis history.

The Legends Team Cup will see 18 retired tennis stars face off in shortened matches lasting a maximum of 45 minutes.

Offering a $12million prize pot, the eight-event competition will feature the likes of Dominic Thiem, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Juan Carlos Ferrero and David Ferrer, with the pool of players separated into three teams led by "iconic captains".

Ahead of the first event taking place in Saint Barths in the Caribbean from June 12 to June 14, organisers have announced 11-time grand slam champion Borg has signed on as the face of the tour.

The trophy received by the winning team will also be named after Borg, who won Wimbledon in five straight years from 1976 to 1980.

"Tennis has given me everything – now it’s time to give back," Borg said in a press release.

"Legends Team Cup is unlike anything the tennis world has seen before, and I am honoured to attach my name to this electrifying competition where champions continue to inspire, compete, and make history.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Legends Team Cup (@legendsteamcup)

"It represents everything I love about tennis – the passion, the rivalries, and the commitment to excellence.

"It's a new chapter in the sport’s history, and I am proud to be a part of it. This platform gives legendary players another opportunity to compete at a high level and continue our journey in tennis beyond the ATP Tour.

"The hunger for competition never fades, and with this tour, we can keep that spirit alive while engaging with our loyal fanbase in exciting new ways."

Former US Open champion Thiem, one of the most high-profile players involved, said: "It's great to have Bjorn Borg joining the Legends Team Cup.

"He is one of the legends from our sport, and for sure, he will fit perfectly for the event!"

The Legends Team Cup will move to the UBS Arena in New York for the second event, which takes place between July 16-18, before switching to St. Moritz's Olympia Stadion from August 14-16.

The Fall Session begins in October, with a Grand Superfinal taking place to crown the ultimate champions.