See main article: 2009 Family Circle Cup.
Serena Williams was the defending champion, but withdrew due to injury.
Sabine Lisicki won her maiden WTA tour title, defeating Caroline Wozniacki in the final 6–2, 6–4.
Dinara Safina gained the World No. 1 ranking for the first time at the conclusion of this tournament, despite not participating. This is because Williams' withdrawal, and loss of her championship ranking points, allowed her to be superseded by Safina in the rankings.
The top eight seeds receive a bye into the second round.