BOCA CRYO IS A COMPREHENSIVE WELLNESS COMPANY THAT UTILIZES CRYOTHERAPY (COLD AIR THERAPY) ALONG WITH OTHER STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGIES, TO ENHANCE GENERAL WELLNESS AND IMPROVE RECOVERY.
TREATMENTS INCLUDE:
CRYOTHERAPY (NITROGEN-FREE WHOLE BODY AND LOCAL)
RADIO FREQUENCY THERAPY MAGNATHERAPY
PNEUMATIC COMPRESSION
SALT THERAPY MASSAGE
EWOT (EXERCISE WITH OXYGEN THERAPY)
BEAUTY (MIAMI PEEL, CRYO FACIALS, AND MORE)
Seen at Boca Cryo!
Top row: Shelby Rogers (career high WTA singles ranking of No. 30); Boca Cryo co-owner Ian Pyka with Marie Bouzkova (career high WTA singles ranking of No. 15) and Publisher Matt Pressman Middle Row: Sisters Brenda Fruhvirtova (career high WTA singles ranking of No. 89) and Linda Fruhvirtova (career high WTA singles ranking of No. 49)
Bottom row: Boca Cryo co-owner Natasha Pyka with Ons Jabeur (career-high WTA singles ranking of No. 2); Reilly Opelka (career-high ATP singles ranking of No. 17)
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER
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1
DELRAY BEACH OPEN OFFERS PREMIER TENNIS, DELRAY BEACH OPEN FOOD & WINE SERIES, AND MORE!
By Lauren Azar
Tennis fans, foodies, and wine enthusiasts rejoice! The excitement of the Delray Beach Open returns to the Delray Beach Stadium & Tennis Center on Atlantic Avenue in downtown Delray Beach, Florida, from February 7-16, 2025. Celebrating its 33rd year, the 2025 tournament promises to build upon the spectacular success of its previous years – and then some!
The ATP Tour’s first North American hard-ctourt event of the outdoor season annually plays in front of over 60,000 fans and reaches television audiences in over 100 countries. New for the Delray Beach Open in 2025 is the addition of new food and beverage options and VIP events, in addition to the always popular Delray Beach Open Food & Wine Series, which will feature over 40 of the top restaurants, food purveyors, and spirit partners in South Florida showcasing there tasting bites and cocktails to the masses.
“The Delray Beach Open will once again offer our fans the tennis, the parties, the food and the entertainment they have come to know and love,” said Adam Baron, Executive Director of the Delray Beach Open. “However, this year, we are excited to introduce a few new events as part of the Delray Beach Open Food & Wine Series. New to the list of food events for 2025 are the Grand Tasting and Valentine’s & Volleys events to go along with the ever-popular Burgers, Bourbon & Brew, Tacos, Tequila & Tennis and crowd favorite Game, Set, Pour. Also, our Championship Weekend Brunches are a can’t miss. We really have something for everyone.”
The 10-day affair is peppered with fabulous parties, special recognition days, clinics, and exclusive events that make its annual appearance a cultural phenomenon. Last year’s tournament, which is one of just eight ATP
Tour events in the United States, attracted an all-time record 65,000+ attendees.
In 2024, defending champion and then top ranked American Taylor Fritz dominated the court, defeating USA countryman Tommy Paul to become only the second player to win back-to-back championships in the Delray Beach Open’s 32-year history. Just recently, Fritz and Paul joined together at the Paris Olympics to win the Bronze Medal for team USA in the Men’s Doubles. On the doubles side of the draw, the third-seeded team of Julian Cash of Great Britain and American Robert Galloway (the first American doubles champion in Delray Beach since the Bryan Brothers in 2020) captured their first ATP Tour title together and individually by stunning top seeds Santiago Gonzalez of Mexico and Neal Skupski of Great Britain.
Beyond the tennis, SAVE THE DATE for these 2025 Delray Beach Open events:
Delray Beach Open Food & Wine Series
It’s party time! The Delray Beach Open Food & Wine Series consists of multiple tasting events, luncheons, brunches and cocktail receptions, which feature over 40 of the top restaurants, food purveyors, and spirit partners in South Florida showcasing there tasting bites and cocktails to the masses. A full list of events and ticket information is available at https://www.delraybeachopen.com/en/food-and-wine .
17th Annual Chamber Bash – Monday, February 10, 5:45 to 7:15 p.m.
Presented by Baptist Health and sponsored by BlueIvy Communications and Carlton Fields, the exclusive networking event will take place at the tournament’s Hospitality Pavilion featuring culinary delights from some of the top spots around!
**NEW: Grand Tasting Event - Tuesday, February 11 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
(VIP access starts at 6 p.m.) The Delray Beach Open Food & Wine Series’ Grand Tasting event at the Hospitality Pavilion is sure to be a highlight of Delray Beach’s social scene, offering a wide variety of fine cuisine from the tournament’s official caterer, VIP Caterers, a full open bar and special appearances from ATP Tour players.
Burgers, Bourbon, and Brew – Wednesday, Feb. 12 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
(VIP access starts at 6 p.m.) The 2nd annual Burgers, Bourbon and Brew will offer guests the opportunity to sample and vote for South Florida’s best burgers, while enjoying beer, wine, and bourbon cocktails from several different distilleries and craft beer partners.
Ladies Day Luncheons – Wednesday, Feb. 12 and Thursday, Feb. 13 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The ever-popular Ladies Day Luncheons return to the DBO offering guests more than just lunch. Tickets include Stadium Court seats to the day’s tennis matches, luncheon, wine, Bloody Mary’s, Stoli Cocktails, raffle prizes and much more.
Tacos, Tequila and Tennis – Thursday, Feb. 13 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. (VIP access starts at 6 p.m.) This fan-favorite, presented by Dano’s Tequila, is returning for its third year! Benefitting the local non-profit organization Love Serving Autism, guests can sample and vote for the best tacos in town while enjoying Dano’s Tequila cocktails. Beer and wine will also be available for the patrons.
**NEW: Valentine’s & Volleys: A Taste of Italy – Friday, Feb. 14 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. (VIP access starts at 6 p.m.). Guests are invited to celebrate Valentine’s Day with their special someone (or to meet one there!) over an evening enjoying the culture and tastes of Italy. This new event offers a unique blend of romantic dining and thrilling tennis as part of the Delray Beach Open Food & Wine Series. Guests will taste a variety of gourmet Italian food while sipping their favorite wine from the tournament’s wine partner, Raeburn Winery.
Championship Brunches – Friday, Feb. 14, Saturday, Feb. 15 & Sunday, Feb. 16 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy an upscale brunch, including bottomless Bloody Mary’s and mimosas prior to the ATP Stadium Court matches Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Still want more? Guests can continue to experience the Hospitality Center’s endless Bloody Mary's, mimosas, desserts and coffee with the ability to leave and re-enter at any time until 3 p.m.!
Game, Set, Pour – Saturday, Feb. 15 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. (VIP access starts at 5:45 p.m.). The 6th annual “Ultimate Pairing Event” features unlimited samplings of the best beer, wine, spirits and food from local restaurants and bars around South Florida. A portion of the proceeds will benefit KulaCares, a crowdfunding platform that connects teachers to the supplies and resources they need.
Senior Days will offer Delray Beach Open attendees age 55+ ‘Buy 1 Get 1 Free’ tickets on box and reserved seats on Saturday, Feb. 8, Monday, Feb. 10, and Wednesday, Feb. 12.
All individual session tickets and Delray Beach Open Food & Wine Series events are on sale now at www.DelrayBeachOpen.com. Series packages are available including on-court “Best Seats in the House” (limited quantity), courtside box seats and reserved seats. Weeklong series packages start at $1,120 and include parking and exclusive amenities, making them the best deal in town. Tickets can be shared with clients and family throughout the week.
For more information, visit www.DelrayBeachOpen.com.
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Remembering Felipe Echavarría: The Tennis Plaza Legacy
In the heart of Miami, a city where tennis is woven into the fabric of everyday life, there is the story of Felipe and Leon Echavarría—two brothers who nurtured a small dream and watched it grow into a lasting legacy. Their journey began in 1990 when they left Colombia and came to the United States, united by a passion for the sport and a desire to create a place where the love of tennis could be shared with others.
Their first store was modest, tucked away in South Miami. Felipe and Leon were the entire team—selling racquets, stringing them, and managing every aspect of the business themselves. Despite the challenges, their commitment to quality and customer service set them apart. Every product was chosen with care, and every customer was treated like family. It was this dedication that laid the foundation for what would become Tennis Plaza. Remarkably, their partnership was never marred by disagreements or conflicts. Instead, their shared vision and unwavering support for each other only strengthened the unique bond they had as brothers and friends.
As the years passed, the small store began to grow. Felipe’s meticulous attention to detail ensured that the shop was always organized, with each item in its proper place. This commitment to excellence helped transform Tennis Plaza—a name that soon became synonymous with the sport in South Florida. Tennis Plaza wasn’t just a store; it became a gathering place for players, coaches, and fans, reflecting the Echavarrías’ deep love for the game.
Felipe was not only a dedicated business owner but also a passionate tennis player and soccer enthusiast. He spoke with excitement about Barcelona, his favorite soccer team, and his love for sports was evident to everyone who knew him. But above all, Felipe valued family. His wife, children, and extended relatives were central to his life, and this sense of family extended to his em-
ployees as well. Whether it was sharing a meal with managers or enjoying a coladita with customers and staff, Felipe created a warm, welcoming atmosphere within Tennis Plaza.
A pivotal moment for Tennis Plaza came in 2002 when the company sponsored the Miami Open. This opportunity brought them into the spotlight, solidifying their reputation as Florida’s premier tennis retailer. Felipe was the mastermind behind the store setup. He meticulously organized the order in which products were displayed, ensuring that every detail was perfect. His eye for design didn’t just impact the Miami Open; many of the current Tennis Plaza store layouts were also designed by him, reflecting his deep understanding of both the sport and the business.
It was also during this time that Felipe nearly had a memorable encounter with Roger Federer—a story that still brings a smile to those who hear it.
The passing of Felipe Echavarría leaves a profound absence, but his legacy lives on through Tennis Plaza, which now operates nine stores across Florida and serves customers nationwide. The values that Felipe instilled—quality, attention to detail, and a genuine love for the game—continue to guide the business today.
As we remember Felipe, we honor not just his accomplishments in the business world, but the humanity and kindness he showed every day. He taught us that tennis is more than just a sport; it’s about the connections we make and the joy we share.
His spirit is there in every carefully strung racquet, in every well-chosen piece of equipment, and in the enduring love for the game that he cherished so deeply.
THE USP SHOWCASE A GAME CHANGER FOR FUTURE COLLEGE PLAYERS!
Get ready for a landmark event in college tennis! The 19th USP College Tennis Showcase is set to take place on December 4-5, 2024, at the beautiful Emilio Sanchez Academy in Naples, FL. This prestigious event continues to be a gamechanger for players and coaches alike, offering a unique platform where talent meets opportunity.
Transformative Experiences
In November 2023, the USP Showcase welcomed a familiar face in a new role. Jesus Lucart, who first graced our Showcase as a player in 2016, returned as an assistant coach for Tufts University. His journey from player to coach highlights the lasting impact of our event.
In 2016 Jesus participated in our Showcase seeking to catch the eyes of college coaches. His impressive performance at the event secured him a spot at Eastern Nazarene University, marking the start of his successful collegiate career. But his journey didn't stop there. After completing his undergraduate degree at Eastern Nazarene College, where he excelled as a player and team captain, Jesus went on to earn his master’s degree in management while performing as the tennis team Assistant Coach.
Following his graduation, Jesus was offered a position as the assistant coach for the women’s tennis team at Tufts University, further advancing his career in college tennis. Since his first year as an assistant coach, Jesus has returned to the USP Showcase every year to recruit new talent. His continued involvement in the Showcase is proof of the event’s significant role in shaping careers and fostering connections in the world of college tennis.
Miranda's story is equally inspiring. With limited past results, Miranda knew she needed to stand out. Determined to make her mark, she took the initiative to contact college coaches before the Showcase, ensuring they knew her name. Her proactive approach made a significant impact, with coaches specifically asking about her. During the event, Miranda’s energy and dedication shone through. She maximized every opportunity, engaging with coaches, demonstrating her skills, and ultimately earning multiple offers, including
several scholarships. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and preparation.
These are just two examples from the hundreds of stories we’ve encountered over the past 18 years of hosting the USP College Tennis Showcase. The event has welcomed players from various backgrounds and skill levels, each seeking their own path in college tennis. Throughout its history, the showcase has been a turning point for many, helping them connect with colleges and programs that align with their aspirations.
What Sets the USP Showcase Apart
Two Days of High-Stakes Action: Experience intense, college-style team matches in a format that simulates the collegiate tennis environment. Players compete in front of a diverse array of college coaches from across the USA, providing them with valuable exposure.
WTN Verified Matches: Participants play a minimum of 4 WTN verified matches, ensuring that their performance is officially recorded and recognized.
College Coaches Expo: The Ultimate Networking Hub. On December 4th, players will have the opportunity to interact with over 100 college coaches during the College Expo. This face-to-face interaction is crucial for building connections and making lasting impressions.
Virtual College Expo: After the Showcase, players can engage with coaches through live chats and video calls, extending the networking possibilities beyond the coaches who participated live at the showcase.
Showcase Stats
In 2023, the Showcase brought together 180 players from 31 countries and 19 US states. USP hosted 122 college coaches from prestigious institutions
Photo Credits: USP
such as Babson College, BYU, Colgate, Florida Gulf Coast University, Miami University, UConn, Delaware, Memphis, UPenn, Virginia Tech, and many more. Over the course of two days, 242 matches were played, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of the participants.
Endorsements from the Tennis Community
Marino Martin, father of a Showcase player, reflects, “I think the USP Showcase is a terrific event. It offers everything for athletes, coaches, and parents to get educated and network with college coaches. It’s been a fantastic experience and investment for our daughter.”
Ivan Fernandez, head women's tennis coach at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), praises, “Great event in South Florida, we enjoy coming here every year. USP always gets some really good players, hopefully, we can get a couple more players here for the future.”
Lucas Weston-Webb, a player at the 2022 and 2023 editions of the showcase, says with excitement “I had a fantastic time here, it was a blast, I met all kinds of new people and I loved it. It was an amazing experience. I recommend
it for everyone thinking about coming down, it’s an absolute must.”
Sign up for an Unforgettable Event
For nearly two decades, the University Sports Program (USP) has been a driving force in connecting aspiring student-athletes with their dream college tennis programs.
USP’s flagship event, the USP College Tennis Showcase, serves as a pivotal platform where talented players, regardless of their current exposure, can showcase their skills in front of a vast network of college coaches. This isn't just a tournament; it's a life-changing opportunity to gain recognition, forge connections, and secure scholarships.
USP invites players, coaches, and tennis enthusiasts to join them in Naples for this transformative experience. For more information or to register, visit showcase.myusp.com.
Don't miss out on the chance to be part of this incredible event. The 19th USP College Tennis Showcase is happening on December 4-5, 2024—make sure to be there!
CLAYS AT THE BEACH FINISH WITH EMOTIONS AND DRAMA
By Matt Pressman
The sun was relentless at the Delray Beach Tennis Center as the USTA Boys' 18 and 16 National Clay Court Championships finals took place. It was as if there was an invisible competitor that each player had to face — the heat.
The first match of the day for the 16 Championships kicked off at 8:30am where Gus Grumet (1) defeated Andrew Johnson (16) 6-2 3-6 6-3. Grumet showed considerable poise throughout the match but lost some rhythm in the second set as Johnson began to dictate baseline play. However, it wasn't enough to stop the No. 1 seed from taking home the gold ball.
The second match of the day for the 18 Championships started promptly at 11:00am where Dylan Long (2) took down Ronit Karki (3) 6-7 6-1 6-4 in a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Long dropped the first
set to Karki in a thriller. Then Karki began to cramp. At multiple times it appeared Karki would default but he pushed on and forced Long to gut out the win in three.
Both matches showcased immense grit to endure South Florida's sauna-like conditions. There were plenty of towel breaks and grimaces as the finalists found a way to fight for a third set showdown. In the end, fitness played a critical role — Grumet and Long should be proud that they'd trained for such a marathon final (and tough week) of tennis.
The tournament also known as the "Clays at the Beach" had nearly four hundred top teen tennis players participating in both the 18 and 16 age bracket draws. This year’s action didn’t disappoint as the level remained extremely high throughout the tournament.
What happened at the Girls’ 14s USTA National Clay Court Championships?
By Harvey Fialkov
PLANTATION – Earlier this year, Allison Wang’s wrist was in a cast and thoughts of the forced retirements of tennis greats Dominic Thiem and Juan Martin del Potro could’ve clouded the 13-year-old's mind and bright future.
Instead, Wang came back stronger than ever, particularly with an improved forehand to go with her powerful two-hand backhand, solid serve and blossoming net attack. On a sunny Sunday morning on the clay courts of the Veltri Racquet Center, Wang, the fifth seed from San Jose, Calif., utilized her entire arsenal in a dominant 6-2, 6-2 victory over third-seeded Enya Hamilton of Dallas to win the Girls’ 14s USTA National Clay Court Championships.
Wang, a native of San Diego. who trains at the Mission Hills Racquet and Swim Club in Freemont, Calif., with coach Austin Ansari, added her third gold ball but first in the14s’division. Previously, she won the National Hard Courts 12s last year and the Winter National 12s in 2022, where she also defeated Hamilton in the quarterfinals 6-0, 6-3.
“I was just trying to execute my aggressive game,’’ said the 5-foot-8 Wang with her Chinese mother Shanshan nearby. “My backhand wasn’t working that well last match, so I tried to add more spin with less flat while timing the ball well and taking it on the rise.
“Mostly my goal was to win a gold ball in 14s. And also before I got injured [last October] my forehand wasn’t that big of a weapon, but now it’s improved a lot. I’m proud of my comeback.”
Wang, who was sidelined from October through January with strained ligaments and a cyst in her right wrist, jumped out to a 5-0 lead. Hamilton, 14, made just one first serve out of 13 in the first set, which is clearly her most dominant stroke. Unlike most junior and pro tennis players, Hamilton’s ball toss is extremely low a-la great servers such as Roscoe Tanner and Goran Ivanisevic, but she’s able to generate great pace with her lightning-fast acceleration.
She credits her former coaches Cole Reeves in Bentonville, Ark., Steve Smith of Great Base Tennis as well as her current coach Dave Anderson at Brookhaven Tennis Academy in Dallas, for helping her attain her career-best finish in a Level 1 national tournament.
“I could’ve played better,’’ said Hamilton, who earned her first national ball (silver). “Everyone has their days. She has a really good serve and especially her forehand has so much spin on it.”
Wang spoiled a Florida hometown reunion, as Hamilton’s father, Russ, who quietly kept her daughter’s match statistics, was born in Plantation. He attended Plantation High and grew up at this vast park, only he was more familiar with the baseball diamonds and
soccer pitches than the tennis courts.
“I saw Jennifer Capriati play here,’’ Russ Hamilton said, referring to Capriati’s last junior match at the Sunshine Cup when she was 13 in 1989. “Enya started slow in her matches all week. That is something we have to work on.”
Hamilton is believed to be named after renowned Irish singer/composer Enya while her older sister Alanis, who reached the consolation final of this tournament three years ago, was named after iconic and ‘Ironic’ singer Alanis Morrissette.
But in the final, Hamilton, who possesses similar powerful groundstrokes and formidable swinging volleys like Wang, was unable to compose a winning formula against her opponent’s masterful performance.
Hamilton, whose mother is Taiwanese to further emphasize the depth of AsianAmerican players in junior tennis, did shake off three set points to avoid the dreaded bagel, before an errant backhand sealed the first set for Wang.
Hamilton seemed to settle down at the start of the second set but at 1-1 was broken when her forehand sailed long. Wang then raced to a 5-1 lead before Hamilton finally located her big serve to swat away the first match point. Wang faced a break point in the final game but ended the match with her trademark forehand winner which elicited a rare show of emotion accompanied by a loud, “Come on!”
On Saturday, Wang knocked out the top-seeded Reiley Rhodes in a thrilling 6-1, 5-7, 6-3 semifinal match in which she held two match points at 5-3 of the second set before two consecutive double faults opened the door for the alpha-competitive Connecticut native to eventually force a third set.
Wang would not repeat the same mistake on Sunday against Hamilton.
“At 5-2, I just stayed loose, knowing the pressure is on her, not me,’’ Wang said. “I tried to play my best and close it out.”
That she did.
Rhodes, a lanky 5-9, 14-year-old, plays a more defensive game than Wang, but owns a brilliant tennis IQ and fiery spirit. She earned her fourth national ball, albeit the bronze, after she won the third-place match, 6-3, 6-1 over 14th-seeded Corinne Winningham, an Iga Swiatek lookalike, who trains at the Birmingham [Ala.] Tennis Academy with coach Mark Baker.
Winningham, 14, who has soared from 106th to 21st in the USTA national rankings this year, also won the tournament's Sportsmanship Award and a pair of K-Swiss sneakers for her positive attitude and fair play.
Allison Wang,
Tournament Supervisor
Dan DeBruyne, Enya Hamilton, and Mayor of Plantation
Nick Sortal.
Photo credit: Michele Hogarth, _Frank Veltri Racquet Center / City of Plantation Parks and Recreation.
“I’m proud of my [fourth-place finish], but not the last match,’’ smiled Winningham through tears. “Mentally, I got stronger. I reached the finals of a Level 2 in Mobile last week and that gave me confidence coming into this tournament.”
Rhodes moved to Annapolis, MD., three years ago, to train at the Junior Tennis Champions Center in College Park where former 10th-ranked Frances Tiafoe honed his game. After a brief rest, she went on to earn her first gold ball by winning the doubles final with partner Emery June Martin of Los Angeles, after the third seeds downed the eighthseeded duo of Olivia De Los Reyes and Emery Combs, 6-1, 6-1.
“I could’ve played better in my semifinal singles match, but I competed and fought really hard, which I needed to do,’’ said Rhodes, who finished in the quarterfinals here last year. “Other than that, I’m super happy to get a bronze [and gold] in the doubles. This is the first time I got two balls in the same tournament. The JTCC has pushed me to be a way better player. I was hitting next to [Tiafoe] and he was like, ‘Look at that backhand!’ ’’
Florida standouts
Other Floridians who enjoyed an outstanding tournament were Rico Pang, who trains at the Evert Tennis Academy in Boca Raton, and fellow Boca resident Teaghan Jou An Keys, who works with coach Marco Guida, a former coach at Evert’s now on his own at Woodfield Country Club.
Keys, the 10th seed, reached the round of 16 in singles before falling to Sophia Osipova, the 33rd seed, who trains at the Sunrise Tennis Club.
Keys and partner Grace Hong of Edison, N.J., the fourth seeds, then captured the bronze medal after winning the third-place playoff over Pang and Adelyn Gross, the second seeds, 7-6 (3), 6-2.
“The first set could’ve gone either way,’’ said Keys, 13, whose dad is Taiwanese. “We just kept consistent and carried the momentum in the second set.”
Osipova went down in the quarters, 7-6 (1), 6-4 to Rhodes, who had to save eight set points in the first set.
Pang, who won three rounds in the 192-player singles draw, and made the semis of doubles, was all smiles after her week’s work.
“It’s my best national tournament ever and I’m pretty proud of myself,’’ said Pang, a left-handed, athletic, defensive backboard. “We came up a little short, but we lost to a very good team in the semis and then in the playoffs we gave it our all.
"The Evert Academy is so awesome. The coaches are constantly cheering me on; even Chris Evert comes to watch me when I play the Battle of Boca [a UTR tournament at Rick Macci’s complex at the South Country Regional Park]. I feel very supportive.”
Aleksandra Jerkunica, the 17th seed from Fort Lauderdale, whose parents are Croatian, won four matches without dropping a set. She advanced to the quarterfinals before running into Wang, the eventual champion, bowing 6-3, 6-2.
In the players to watch category, arguably the most pro-like match of the tournament came in the third round, when 33rd-seed Armira Kockinis outslugged fourth-seeded Daniela Del Maestro, 6-4 in the third set.
Kockinis, who hails from Compton outside of Los Angeles where the Williams’ sisters began their Hall of Fame careers, was a relative unknown because she mostly plays in the 18s’ divisions. Del Maestro, of Minneapolis, avenged that loss in the consolation semifinal, 6-3, 3-6 (10-2) over Kockinis in the super breaker and then routed Braylen Michelsen, 6-3, 6-0 to finish in fifth place.
Dan DeBruyne, supervisor of racquet sports at Veltri, and tournament supervisor, deemed the tournament a rousing success.
“We’ve hosted this since 1989, a staple what we do here, along with the [16s and 18s] Orange Bowl,’’ DeBruyne said. “More than 200 players and their families love coming to Plantation every summer where they can do a variety of things such as shop at Sawgrass Mills, visit our beaches, stay at our local hotels and eat at the many restaurants. It’s a lot of work to put together but days like today make it all worthwhile.”
DeBruyne was grateful to the sponsors such as K-Swiss, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Lime Fresh Mexican Grill, Chick-fil-A and Panera Bread for supporting the event.
Harvey Fialkov covered all South Florida pro sports teams over a 35-year sportswriting career including three decades of the Miami Open, Delray Beach Open, both the Junior and Orange Bowl tennis tournaments as well as the Girls' 14s National Clay Courts.
PLAY AT VELTRI.
Allison Wang. Photo credit: Michele Hogarth, Frank Veltri Racquet Center / City of Plantation Parks and Recreation.
2024 USTA Florida Section News
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
REFLECTING ON TWO YEARS OF GROWTH
By: Phil Girardi
Serving as President for USTA Florida over the last two years has been quite the honor. When I decided to coach and bring tennis to my students, I never had any idea that I would end up being in this position. It’s been my pleasure to meet so many players, providers, coaches and volunteers around the state. It amazes me how diverse a tennis population we have and how programming differs from community to community.
I have been genuinely surprised by the immense amount of effort required to sustain the myriads of programming, leagues, and tournaments that operate within our section. The dedication and commitment demonstrated by everyone involved is truly inspiring.
Moreover, the sheer number of passionate individuals, whether coaches, providers, captains, directors, or officials, is nothing short of staggering. Each person plays a vital role in cultivating a vibrant tennis culture that fosters teamwork, skill development, and friendly competition. I hope that as a section we can keep up with the rising demand to keep tennis available to all those who wish to play.
How great it has been to be President during USTA Florida’s 75th Anniversary year, which isn’t done yet. We have such a rich tennis history in our state. I think it has been a great year to promote our past, our thriving present, and provide a vision of where we should go as a section. Great steps have been made in bringing our story not only to tennis people but also to those that didn’t have a clue what we do. I hope you had an opportunity to read the last edition of Florida Tennis Magazine and get a feel for what USTA Florida means and has meant to our sport.
Meeting so many of you at our celebrations has truly been a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We’ve had incredible discussions with individuals from all areas of the tennis world. We also have witnessed tennis celebrities and legends interacting with volunteers and fellow players, creating unforgettable memories that simply can’t be replicated.
As I finish my two years, I am starting to look back at what I feel we have accomplished. As a Section, we’ve accomplished much during this time.
One accomplishment has come from our Community Coach Program. We have made advancements to put more Safe Play certified volunteers and coaches on the courts. This was a huge need coming out of Covid and with our expanding population. I feel we
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER
have a better idea on how to recruit and train the next generation of coaches and mentors. I hope with the partnerships of the other coaching organizations we can continue to keep this moving in the right direction.
We did a deep dive into what our future volunteer structure will have to look like going forward. It was not what we originally had in mind, but with an ever-changing landscape we have found that our volunteer world needs to change as well. Advocacy is a must in all areas of tennis, and we must be prepared to rise to all challenges we will face.
We have also come a long way in understanding what it takes to run public tennis facilities. Facility management will be key to keeping our sport viable and thriving. You can’t just invest money into fixing courts and building new facilities and expect good outcomes. It’s a very complex equation that still needs more work.
My next two years will be my last on the Board of Directors for USTA Florida as Section Delegate. I look forward to working with the other sections in the USTA to make tennis the best sport available to all that wish to play. I know it sounds cliche, but I truly love to give back to the sport that changed my life.
What has been accomplished by the staff and volunteers over this time has humbled me. I want to thank Laura Bowen, the USTA Florida Staff, my Board of Directors, our tennis partners and all the volunteers that made these accomplishments happen. I also thank all of those who I have worked with in the past, whether volunteers or in the tennis industry, to give me the knowledge and confidence to live up to this position. I truly cannot forget to thank my wife Michele who put up with all the hours of me being gone to undertake this task. Sometimes your family and friends have to put up with the inconvenience of doing the right thing for this sport.
Lastly, I want to thank all of you. Players and providers and all those mentioned who make tennis great.
Play hard and be nice to each other!
USTA Florida President, Phil Girardi
HISPANIC HISTORY AND Growth in Florida
As Hispanic Heritage Month unfolds from September 15 to October 15, USTA Florida proudly celebrates the significant contributions of Hispanic players, coaches, and volunteers who have enriched the state’s tennis landscape.
Hispanic influence in Florida’s tennis scene dates back several decades. The migration of Hispanic families to Florida brought a wave of talent and passion for the sport. One of the biggest Hispanic pioneers from Florida is Mary Joe Fernandez, a tennis legend born in the Dominican Republic, but raised in Miami, made a substantial impact on the tennis world. Fernandez, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and Doubles Grand Slam champion, has been a role model for aspiring tennis players in Florida, especially with young girls.
In recent years, the growth of Hispanic participation in Florida tennis has been remarkable. The state’s vast Hispanic population, which makes up a little more than a quarter of Florida’s residents, has fueled a vibrant tennis culture. This growth is reflected in the increasing number of Hispanic players, volunteers, tournament directors, and coaches.
Following the boom of tennis participation in 2020, partially due to the Covid pandemic, Florida tennis was well represented by the Hispanic culture. At that time, 16% of the 1.5 million tennis players in the state were Hispanic. In 2022, there were 1.63 million players with 23% being Hispanic, a 7% jump in just two years! Over the course of the next two years, Florida has more than 1.8 million players with more than 26% of the community represented by Hispanic participants, one of the largest of any USTA section.
USTA Florida has been instrumental in fostering an inclusive environment that supports Hispanic players, volunteers, and communities. There are 617 volunteers registered in the USTA Florida Volunteer Aces program, with just over 11% being Hispanic. On the tournaments side, there are 210 tournament directors in the state. Of those, there are just over 10% that are Hispanic.
When it comes to Community Coaches, of the more than 500 participants, 13% of them represent the Hispanic community. Finally, the approved trainers of the Community Coach Program are 10% Hispanic.
For USTA Florida Adult Leagues, South Florida counties such as Broward and Miami-Dade make up a great portion of Hispanic population. That region has seen great success in the past few years, including some National Championships, where Miami-Dade won back-to-back titles in the Adult 40 & Over 4.5 Men’s division.
USTA Florida has worked hard to promote tennis to Hispanic communities and grow the game in those areas. Back in 2013, the organization launched the Tenis Para Todos initiative, which was focused to bring the sport to Hispanic families across Central and South Florida, the two regions with the largest Hispanic population in the state.
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, it’s essential to recognize the ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in Florida tennis. The future is bright on all fronts with more Hispanic youth taking up the sport, coaches being trained, and volunteers getting involved with tennis. USTA Florida’s commitment to expanding its outreach and support for Hispanic communities remains a core goal.
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the rich cultural contributions of Hispanic individuals to Florida’s tennis landscape and spotlight their growth. The organization plans to continue its efforts to make tennis a sport that anyone can see themselves in. By offering more programs and resources, USTA Florida aims to ensure that the next generation of Hispanic tennis players has the opportunity to thrive.
FLORIDA TALENT SHINES AT
ATA National Championships
The 2024 American Tennis Association (ATA) National Championships were held at the USTA National Campus from July 2228, bringing together hundreds of athletes from across North America and the Caribbean. This historic event showcased the remarkable talent and diversity within the tennis community, reaffirming the ATA’s role as a key tennis organization since 1916.
The ATA has been a prolific pipeline for some of the greatest players, coaches, and contributors in tennis history. Since the first National Championships in 1917, the tournament has grown, evolving from just three events to five major events. The 2024 Championships continued this proud tradition, providing a national stage for competition, camaraderie, and celebration of the sport.
USTA Florida takes pride in highlighting the outstanding performances of athletes from the Sunshine State. With 21 winners and 19 finalists hailing from Florida, the state’s representation was a testament to the depth of talent and dedication to the sport within the region. Breaking it down further, 7 winners and finalists came from junior athletes, while the other 14 winners and 12 finalists were in the adult competition
As the 2024 Championships ended, the event underscored its significance in promoting tennis and providing opportunities for players to shine on a national stage. The success of Florida and all the athletes in attendance is not only a point of pride for the state but also a beacon of inspiration for future generations.
The ATA remains committed to nurturing talent and promoting diversity in tennis. Earlier this month, USTA Florida was the proud presenting sponsor of the third annual ATA Gala, where awardees were honored, and the sport was celebrated.
As the two organizations both work to make tennis more accessible to all, let’s take a look at the results from the ATA National Championships.
ATA WINNERS & FINALISTS FROM FLORIDA
Junior Competition
Girl’s 10s Green Ball Singles
• Polina Sribniak (Ponte Vedra) Finalist
Boy’s 12s Singles
• Maxim Kerbikov (Satellite Beach) Champ
• Rafael Carcamo (Coral Springs) Finalist
Girl’s 12s Singles
• Sierra Mongerie (Tallahassee) Champ
Boy’s 14s Singles
• David Bender (Indian Harbour Beach) Champ
• Omar Mongerie (Tallahassee) Finalist
Boy’s 16s Singles
• Mikaeel Alibaig (Boca Raton) Champ
• Rafael Stahl (Winter Park) Finalist
Girl’s 16s Singles
• Audrey Dussault (Kissimmee) Champ
• Sonia Govina (Sun City Center) Finalist
Boy’s 18s Singles
• Tristan Dussault (Kissimmee) Champ
Girl’s 12s Doubles
• Carla Tejeda/Elena Satchkov (Doral) Champs
Girl’s 14s Doubles
• Maria Marcela Mendez Alvardo/Bianca • Sofia Perez Durate (Orlando) Finalist
Boy’s 16s Doubles
Luca Torres-Sigler/Corbin Grant (Riverview) Champs
• Charles Nelson/Henry Kennedy (Lehigh Acres) Finalists
Men’s 80 & Over Doubles
• Robert Davis/Denton Johnson (Bradenton) Champs
Women’s 50 & Over Doubles
• Julie Martin/Sonia Patrick (Riverview) Champs
WOMEN & GIRLS IN TENNIS:
Elevating the Game
Back in March, USTA Florida took a significant step forward in promoting gender equity within the sport by revealing its Women in Tennis Research and expanding its Women in Tennis Initiative. This effort aimed at creating more opportunities for women and girls in tennis through targeted programs, coaching opportunities, and a commitment to equity principles.
Since then, USTA Florida has actively implemented these changes, making strides to increase participation and support for women and girls at all levels of play. These efforts are reflected in allgirls camps, where two have already happened, and more are planned.
On May 5, USTA Florida teamed up with long-time partner, Love Serving Autism (LSA), to host a special All-Girls Camp. This event focused on inclusivity, placing a particular emphasis on girls with autism and unique abilities. The camp provided a safe and supportive environment for these girls to learn and enjoy tennis, demonstrating USTA Florida and LSA’s commitment to making the sport accessible to everyone.
Later in the summer, in August, USTA Florida and UTR Sports collaborated to host their Third Annual All-Girls Camp at the University of North Florida (UNF). This camp offered girls a unique opportunity to learn from and interact with the UNF Women’s Tennis team, as well as receive
mentorship from established women in the sport. The experience not only enhanced their tennis skills but also provided valuable insights and inspiration from female role models.
At these camps, participants proudly wore t-shirts designed by women in the sport, Monica Toledo and Erin Weiffenbach. Monica’s “Equal Tennis Game” design and Erin’s “Tennis Love” artwork have become symbols of the initiative’s goals. These shirts have been distributed at all camps and women’s coaching training sessions.
Later this fall, USTA Florida will be hosting some more camps, with one scheduled to take place at the USTA National Campus. There is also another one set at the Historical Black College and University, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. FAMU has played a massive role in Florida’s tennis history as the legendary Althea Gibson has inspired many young girls in the Black community to get involved with tennis.
EXPANDING COACHING OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN
USTA Florida’s commitment to promoting women in tennis extends beyond players and includes coaching as well. The organization has hosted several women-specific training sessions, providing valuable resources and support for female coaches. Jennifer Johnson, a
new Community Coach, went through the program and loves to see women-only aspects being implemented.
“I attended the All-Women adaptive training last summer with my daughter Morgan, who is also a certified coach,” she said. “It was an amazing experience to network and collaborate with other women coaches. Sharing it with my daughter was even more meaningful.”
Jennifer wants to see more women involved because of the different view women bring to the sport. “Women coaches bring a unique perspective and experience,” Jennifer added. “We are all a team, and it takes everyone’s effort to coach that team, no matter what the age of the player. You are never too young, or old, to grow yourself in the game and more importantly, to grow the game of tennis.”
Following her participation in the Community Coach Program, Jennifer hosted a training of her own, where she helped train 20 community coaches at the YMCA of Collier County.
USTA Florida’s expanded Women in Tennis Initiative is making a meaningful difference, providing more play opportunities and fostering a supportive community for women and girls in tennis. As these programs continue to grow, the future of women in tennis looks brighter than ever, promising greater inclusion, equity, and success for all.
STRENGTHENING THE COMMUNITY: Back to School with USTA Florida
As the 2024-2025 school year kicked off in August, USTA Florida embraced the back-to-school spirit with a series of impactful community events across the state. These events aimed to support both students and teachers, sharing the love for tennis while promoting health and wellness.
Understanding the crucial role that teachers play in introducing sports to young minds, USTA Florida collaborated with Physical Education (PE) professionals to equip them with the necessary tools and knowledge to teach tennis. These training sessions covered the fundamentals of tennis, emphasizing the sport’s health benefits, mental and physical, to students.
PE teachers who participated in these sessions also had the opportunity to register for free tennis equipment from USTA. This initiative ensures that tennis becomes a permanent part of the school curriculum, allowing students to engage in the sport regularly. The USTA and USTA Florida aims to create a lasting impact, where tennis becomes a key part of the school experience for students across Florida.
USTA Florida also helps give to the students at the Packing District Back-to-School Jam. This event was designed to introduce students to the sport in a fun manner as well as celebrate the start of the school year. USTA Florida set up mini tennis courts and provided equipment for students to try out the game. Excitement filled the air as kids took to the court, some for the first time, discovering the joy of playing tennis.
In addition to the hands-on experience, USTA Florida distributed backpacks filled with school supplies for 300 local youth. This initiative not only provided students with the tools they need to continue their educational journey, but also encouraged them to take up tennis as a regular activity.
These efforts are part of USTA Florida’s broader mission to promote tennis as a lifelong sport that benefits individuals physically, mentally, and socially. As the new school year unfolds, USTA Florida remains committed to engaging with the school communities sharing a love for tennis across the state.
USTA Florida’s back-to-school events are just the beginning. The organization plans to continue its outreach efforts throughout the year, ensuring that tennis remains accessible and enjoyable for everyone. With ongoing support for teachers and students, USTA Florida aims to build a robust tennis community that thrives on inclusivity, health, and fun.
An Exclusive Interview with Brian Dillman, CEO of USPTA
By Jessica Bergen
Brian Dillman’s path to becoming the CEO of the USPTA is as captivating as his vision for the future of tennis. From humble beginnings in Dallas, Texas to his involvement in one of the world’s biggest sponsorship deals, Brian’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. We caught up with Brian to delve into his story, his passion for tennis, and his ambitious plans for the USPTA.
“I started playing tennis because I couldn't swim,” Brian began, his smile widening as he recalled his early days. Growing up and training in Dallas, Brian developed into a nationally ranked junior among other talented players. One of Brian’s most memorable matches was against a young Pete Sampras. “I got a chance to lose to Pete,” he said, chuckling. "He was 12, I was 16."
After graduating from the University of Illinois, where Brian was a valued member of the men’s tennis team, he became certified with the USPTA by John Ingram in 1991. Just a few years later, he interviewed for a sales job with Wilson. “I got really lucky. I came in second place. Thank goodness the first guy did not take the job,” Brian exclaims.
One of Brian’s most notable achievements at Wilson was negotiating a lifetime deal with Roger Federer. “We were at a standstill during the negotiation. Roger’s agent, Tony Godsick, called us and said, ‘Roger wants to have a call with you guys.’ Brian emphasized that this meeting was no longer through the agent, implying its critical importance to both Wilson and Roger. Roger goes on to say 'I know we're far apart. I know you have
budgets. But I'm going to win more Grand Slams than anybody else. Do you want to be the guys that tried to save money to lose me, or do you want to be the guys who signed me when I win the most Grand Slams?'”
“Not much you can say to that kind of confidence…” Brian adds. Roger went on to sign a lifetime sponsorship deal with Wilson.
The USPTA’s mission is clear in educating professionals to help them grow, learn, and advance in their careers. For aspiring tennis professionals, the USPTA offers a supportive community. “There's a network here, a community. We have 17 divisions across the United States with volunteer and paid leadership. They support professionals in continuing education, meeting new people, getting jobs, writing resumes, learning how to interview, and networking.”
Florida, Brian noted, remains a key state for the USPTA. “Florida has always been kind of the mecca of tennis. Hard to say as a Texan, but Florida is where tennis happens, where pros live. Our leadership here has done an amazing job bringing together people from private clubs, the public sector, building a close network.”
As Brian leads the USPTA into the future, his passion and commitment to the sport are evident. “If you're a career professional in this business, you care about the industry and the business. Anything we can do to help advance those careers and that education is how we can help.”
A South Florida native, Jay Berger is a tennis icon in the Sunshine State. Berger serves as Director of Athletics at the Club at Ibis, an award-winning country club in West Palm Beach. He also moonlights as the coach of Boca Raton-based professional tennis player Reilly Opelka.
What makes Berger qualified to coach Opelka? A former top 10 player on the ATP Tour, Berger also served as Head of Men's Tennis at the USTA in addition to his roles coaching the USA in both Davis Cup competition and the Olympic Games. He knows how to succeed in the sport of tennis.
Meanwhile, Opelka, who was once a top 20 player, is working through a comeback after some tough injuries. He went nearly two years without playing a tour-level match after hip surgery and multiple wrist surgeries. The 6'11" big server made a successful return in Newport, where he reached the semi-finals. And, since then, he’s been gaining traction on the tour.
ATPTour.com recently sat down with Berger to discuss Opelka's path back to the tour. Berger explained, "I don't think people realize how dedicated he is,
LONGTIME COACH JAY BERGER WEIGHS IN ON REILLY OPELKA'S COMEBACK
how committed he is, and how resilient and determined he was to get back."
Two years is a long time to recover from career-threatening injuries and Berger had his doubts. He explains, "There were a lot of ups and downs and three to four months ago, I was not very optimistic to be honest. So his determination to just to see it to the end and to do everything possible to get back on the court... I mean, he is one of the most dedicated athletes I've ever seen or been around."
"The guy is in the gym seven days a week, it’s really been an all-encompassing thing for him to get back," Berger explains. "Mostly I'm just blown away by the commitment."
Berger has worked with Opelka since the age of 11 and he's thrilled to see Opelka's early efforts as he returns to the tour. He explains, "We’ve spent a lot of time and I was kind of was overseeing his program when he was young... I’ve been doing this for a while and the reason I do it with him is I enjoy it, he’s a great kid. He listens and keeps trying to get better."
Opelka's coach Jay Berger also oversees an impressive tennis facility including 15 Har-Tru courts and a cushioned hard court at the Club at Ibis. Photo: Club at Ibis.
Bottom Photo: Reilly Opelka can often be found training at the Club at Ibis. Photo: Club at Ibis.
LIMITLESS CENTER OF EXCELLENCE
SHAPING FUTURE
TENNIS STARS
By Jessica Bergen
Nestled in the vibrant town of Hallandale Beach, the Limitless Center of Excellence stands out as a premier destination for aspiring tennis stars. We had the pleasure of touring this state-of-the-art facility, complete with both clay and hard courts, and engaging in conversation with the academy's key figures: Gaurav Malhotra, the Director of Coaching, and Liam Smith, the Director of Operations.
Liam's coaching experience includes some big names in pro tennis. "Though I didn't achieve the playing career I wanted, I've been fortunate to coach incredible talents like Gael Monfils and Coco Gauff. My role as a national head coach at Tennis Australia allowed me to develop players like Alex de Minaur from a young age."
Gaurav's tennis journey is also a tale of tenacity and global experience. "I wasn't a great player," Gaurav admitted, "but I had a hunger and desire to become a top-level coach. I traveled the world,
learning from various federations in Australia, Canada, and England, and gained valuable insights that I now share with our players."
"Welcome to our world of limitless possibilities," Gaurav explained, encapsulating the essence of their mission. "We're here creating an environment and a program exclusively for athletes aspiring to be future stars."
Liam echoed this sentiment, adding, "Our goal is to develop junior tennis players to their maximum potential, whether they aim for a college career or professional tennis. We provide all the necessary resources, experience, and tools to help them succeed."
What sets Limitless apart from other tennis academies in Florida and beyond? "It's in the name," Liam explained. "We inspire our athletes to reach for the stars. There are no limits here. We focus on developing players, not just running a busi-
ness. Our mission is to cultivate excellence in every aspect of training and development."
As we toured the facility, it was clear that the ethos of Limitless is embodied in its daily operations. "Every day is precious," Gaurav said. "Rain or shine, we're out here working. Even without indoor courts, we're in the gym, in classrooms, constantly training. Our dedication is unwavering."
The Limitless Center of Excellence is both a tough training ground and a caring, nurturing environment where young athletes grow and thrive. On and off the court, this commitment to developing strong, resilient athletes is truly commendable.
As we left the Limitless Center of Excellence, we couldn't help but feel inspired by the passion and dedication of Gaurav, Liam, and their team. For young aspiring tennis stars, this can be a place where dreams are developed and transformed into reality.
Photos: Constantine Van Horne photography courtesy of Limitless Center of Excellence.
Tournament Schedule
• December 7th - 8th
• December 9th - 10th
• December 11th - 12th
• December 13th - 14th
• December 15th - 16th
• December 17th - 18th
2024
DAVID ENSIGNIA TENNIS ACADEMY ANNOUNCES SCHEDULE FOR DETA INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENTS
The David Ensignia Tennis Academy has unveiled its official schedule for the 2024 DETA International Tournaments, 11 days of elite junior international tennis competition at Continental Park Tennis Center in East Kendall and Miccosukee Golf & Country Club, in West Kendall.
DETA International Tournaments kicks off Saturday, Dec. 7 and will feature 350 top junior players from around the globe competing in a series of high-stakes, two-day tournaments that will showcase the upcoming generation of tennis stars."These tournaments are where stars are born," says David Ensignia, tournament director. "Many of today's professional champions, including Coco Gauff, Sofia Kenin, Bianca Andreescu, and Miomir Kecmanović, honed their skills at South Florida tournaments just like this one."
The DETA International Tournaments represent the pinnacle of junior tennis competition, offering a platform for top international players to test their skills against the world's best. Playing in international junior tournaments is crucial for the development of young tennis players, offering them international exposure and the
opportunity to compete against other top talents in their age group under the ITF, WTN ranking, Ensignia said.
They’re also an excellent opportunity for scouts to spot up-andcoming players who might become the next big names in professional tennis. For fans, the DETA International Tournaments provide a unique opportunity to witness the sport's future unfold on the court.
South Florida's junior tournaments boast a celebrated history of nurturing tennis talent. Legendary players such as Björn Borg, Jim Courier, Elena Dementieva, Chris Evert, and Roger Federer all lifted trophies at similar events early in their careers, setting the stage for their future dominance in professional tennis.
DETA International Tournaments is an official satellite tournament of the prestigious Orange Bowl International Tennis Championships, further cementing its importance in the junior tennis calendar.
"The atmosphere at these tournaments is electric," added Ensignia. "It's the same vibrant environment that has inspired young athletes for decades, and continues to shape the future of our sport."
Autograph Corner
At 28 years old, Russian Daniil Medvedev is a cross generational tennis player with battle scars from hard fought matches against incredible players including Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. He has been ranked number one in the world in singles and has notched 20 ATP tour singles titles at 20 different events, including the 2023 Miami Open. Highlight reel wins include the 2021 US Open and the 2020 ATP Finals. En route to the ATP Finals victory he beat the top three ranked players in the world, the only player to accomplish that feat. Medvedev’s US Open title denied Novak Djokovic’s bid for a calendar grand slam. Medvedev has prevailed in six Masters titles and he has played in six major finals. Medvedev, nicknamed Chessmaster for his love of chess and tactical approach to tennis and the Octopus for his unorthodox and lethal playing style, may be the best interview on the ATP Tour. Never at a loss for words and no canned answers from this amazing competitor. Florida Tennis asked Medvedev about how becoming a father changed him on and off the court. Medvedev and his wife, Daria, became first time parents to daughter, Alisa, in 2022. “As a player, I don't think this changed me to be honest. So yeah, but hopefully, hopefully, it helps me to mature a little bit. Many times I'm still immature on the court. But I feel like I'm improving slowly every year. That's, you know, that's my goal. In life, hopefully. Yeah, that made me more mature also, you know, more responsible. It's a bigger responsibility for sure to be a father,” said Med-
vedev. And what about navigating the work-life balance? “And how do I balance, it's not easy. We compromise because, you know, if you want to see your daughter a lot, then your wife has to sacrifice a lot because she has to travel with the baby and many times it's her taking the plane alone with the baby. It's not that easy. I've done it a couple of times. She's done it ten times more than me. With the daughter, sometimes I have to practice less somewhere. Now I need to find the balance to see my daughter. I feel like I'm doing well, but I'm always trying to find this balance,” said Medvedev. At 6’6” tall, Medvedev defies convention with his unorthodox strokes and movement. His return of serve position from well behind the baseline is also a bit different from other players. While tennis fans marvel at the consistency, finesse and power of players such as Carlos Alacaraz and Janik Sinner, Medvedev is always a fascinating watch as well with his unorthodox playing style and heady approach. No player wants to see Medvev on their side of the draw as he is always a tough out. Does Medvedev consider himself easy to coach and does he listen to all of the advice from his coaches, Gilles Cervera and Gilles Simon? “Many people around me, my parents or my coaches could tell me many different things. But [I didn’t listen] until I found it out myself,” said Medvedev. And, does this run in the family? “I would say [this is the] same with my daughter. I tell her and I try to help her and she's [acting] like, I'm gonna do it my way. I'm like, good for you. I like it!” And the tennis world likes watching Medvedev!
This 63rd edition will showcase the most talented 12U and 14-and-under tennis players worldwide. This globally recognized event brings together 800 of the top-ranked junior boys and girls, representing 76 countries. Match locations Miami: Salvadore Park (G14); Kerdyk Biltmore Tennis Center (B14); Crandon Park Tennis Center (B12 &G12).
Attendance is FREE to the Public!
Thank You to our Official
Adam Ross is a contributing writer for Florida Tennis and a volunteer with the USTA Florida. He is also Vice-President of the TCA/Tennis Collectors of America. He welcomes your questions or comments at aross95400@gmail.com. Photos courtesy of Adam Ross Collection.
Visiting
THE CINCINNATI OPEN
The Cincinnati Open is steeped in rich history. For instance, in 1923, the tennis tournament was halted momentarily to conduct a memorial service for a fallen U.S. President. At 3:45 pm on Friday, August 10, 1923, players, and fans alike suspended play to honor President Warren G. Harding, who died on August 2 of what was believed to be a stroke. After further medical review, it is now believed that he succumbed to heart failure. The ceremony was timed to coincide with President Harding’s graveside service and burial in his hometown of Marion, Ohio. As the Cincinnati Open celebrates the 125th anniversary since its inception in 1899, the tournament returns to its original name with a new logo.
The tournament is older than several deep-rooted American sporting events, including the Rose Bowl (1902), World Series (1903), Indianapolis 500 (1911), the Masters (1934) and the last but not least Super Bowl (1966). This pro tournament is one of the ten active athletic contests worldwide to have started in the 19th century.
Throughout the course of the tournament scheduled roundtable interviews, I had the opportunity to ask Aryna Sabalenka the following question: “How do you deal with the heat at the Cincinnati Open?” She responded by saying “Since I did not play Wimbledon, I was in Florida. In the evening, I was wearing a jacket.” Taken by surprise, everyone in the room laughed at her answer. However, taking it more literally than the question meant, the heat and humidity in Florida make it a premier training hub for serious world class tennis players and home to many other elite athletes. Some have suggested that Florida is the nation’s sporting capital. Sabalenka elaborated her answer as follows, “if you can survive the Florida July heat, you can survive anything.” Sabalenka participated in a rigorous training camp in Florida to prepare for the Cincinnati Open.
Another player doing the rounds with reporters was gold medalist Zheng Qinwen who recently won singles at the Paris Olympics. Qinwen was asked “Where was her Olympic hardware”? She responded smiling and stated, “It is already in China. The first thing my father stated firmly when I called him was quote: “Give your medal to your manager. We want the medal back in China.” Qinwen is hoping to have a productive tournament in Cincinnati and continue
her winning streak.
As previously detailed by the editor and publisher of the Florida Tennis Magazine, Matt Pressman, Brandon Nakashima continues his awe-inspiring comeback with a pair of impressive wins over Taylor Fritz (6-4, 5-7, 7-6 (6)) and Arthur Fils (7-5,7-6 (3)) at the Cincinnati Open at the time this issue goes to press. Nakashima mentioned how the Emilio Sánchez Academy in Naples, Florida has lots of courts nested in the alluring private club which was ideal for his pro tour resurgence.
In late 2023, Cincinnati Open owner Beemok Capital guaranteed to invest $260 million into tournament site upgrades to enhance the fan and player experience, while keeping the event at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in Mason, Ohio. This has assured that the loyal fan base continues to grow at this tournament. A must stop outside the Lindner Tennis Center is the historic Graeter’s Ice Cream Co. at 5440 Dixie Highway, where they offer their premier peach ice cream. If you stay in the Tennis Center, you can still enjoy other fabulous ice cream flavors from their company.
This year’s Cincinnati Open has been reimagined with a design for the trophy that embodies several significant concepts such as evolution and growth, endurance and resilience, connection and unity, precision and skill that ties the sport of tennis with the Cincinnati Open community.
A special thank you is due to Toni Woods who is the Media Director for the Cincinnati Open. Toni provided a valuable media guide that describes the evolution of professional tennis in Cincinnati. Additionally, Richard Osborn, a gifted writer for the Cincinnati Open, also provided priceless data points for this article. The next Cincinnati Open schedule goes from August 7- August 18, 2025.
Guillermo Morales-Rubert is the CFO of the Military and Federal Assistance Program (MFAP). The program offers help, hope and healing to those active and retired members of the US Armed Forces. In addition, MFAP gives assistance to federal government employees who have single income families. Guillermo is a contributing writer for the Florida Tennis Magazine.
Photo credits: Jared Wickerham / Cincinnati Open, Maggie Brown / Cincinnati Open, Peter Staples / ATP Tour
RECOVERY TECHNIQUES FOR COMPETITIVE TENNIS PLAYERS
Photo credit: Jamaal Cooks / Unsplash
IN THE WORLD OF COMPETITIVE TENNIS, RECOVERY IS AS CRUCIAL AS TRAINING.
The intense physical demands of the game, combined with the mental pressure, can lead to significant stress on players.
Effective recovery techniques not only help mitigate stress but also enhance overall performance, in addition to preventing injuries. Some of the key recovery methods used by competitive tennis players to fight stress and optimize their performance include:
Active Recovery – Low impact, low to moderate intensity aerobic exercises to help flush the body of the bi-products of exercise.
Optimal Nutrition - Eating the right foods helps repair muscle tissues, replenish energy stores, and reduce inflammation.
Compression Therapy - Compression therapy involves some apparatus (socks/sleeves/ boots) to improve circulation, which aids in recovery and a decrease in muscle soreness. Meditation - Stress management and mental relaxation techniques help players cope with the psychological demands of the game.
Flexibility - Stretching and flexibility exercises help reduce muscle stiffness, improve range of motion, and enhance overall muscle function.
Sleep and Rest - Quality sleep is fundamental for both physical and mental recovery. During deep REM sleep, the body is able to repair muscle tissue and restore energy levels.
Cold and Hot Therapy - Cold and hot therapy can help manage inflammation, reduce muscle soreness, and enhance recovery.
Breathing Exercises - Breathing exercises help manage stress and promote relaxation by calming the nervous system and reducing muscle tension.
This laundry list of methods may seem novel to the beginner or even intermediate player, but for the accomplished, top seeds, it may be a daily ritual.
Recovery is considered a means of decreasing both the physical and mental stressors of exercise, and returning the body to a state of homeostasis. “Sound Mind–Sound Body” says it all! Let’s take a closer look at what modalities are being used today, to help in restoring this connection to the competitive tennis player.
Magnetherapy is a popular means of decreasing the sympathetic signals (fight or flight) that the body experiences during and even post-activity. At Boca CryoTM we use a device called the MagnesphereTM. This device targets the vagus nerve, which is responsible for the parasympathetic (rest and digest) signal. This, in turn, calms the body and returns it to a level of self-healing and repair. The sixty-minute exposure puts most to sleep, regardless of time of day.
Whole Body Cryotherapy is widely used for decreasing inflammation and pain by exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures for 3 to 3.5 minutes. More importantly, the
parasympathetic response to the (fight or flight) sympathetic response to the cold, results in amazingly restful sleep following treatments. At Boca CryoTM we use only cold air to cool the chamber. Most use liquid nitrogen to cool, which can be dangerous if inhaled.
Ice baths are also popular but uncomfortable for many and overkill for most. When compared to three minutes of cold air chambers, sitting in an ice bath for extended periods of time, results in the core temperature dropping as opposed to the cold air devices.
Heat Therapy is another form of relaxation therapy which can come in the form of steam or sauna or if local application, to relax tight muscles and improve flexibility.
Alternating between hot and cold can also stimulate blood flow and accelerate recovery. This is referred to as Contrast Therapy.
Breathing Exercises are exercises to help manage stress and promote relaxation by calming the nervous system and reducing muscle tension.
Unless under exhaustive stressors, like vigorous exercise or playing a tennis match, we are all shallow breathers. The body’s need for more oxygen comes only when demand increases. In these cases, our breaths deepen and become more rapid. We can train the body to become more efficient at taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide by the practice of “Deep Breathing”. Learning to use your diaphragm, as well as your lungs, enables you to relax your body and mind. Studies have also shown that breathing through your nose only, can increase air moisture, filter toxins, increases oxygen levels and increase nitric oxide levels.
There are also several techniques for controlling your breathing to reduce anxiety, lower heart rate and relax the body to be able to manage stress levels during critical times of competition. Box breathing (used by military Special Forces) and Wim Hof are two popular examples of these stress-reducing techniques.
Every few months we hold a Breath Work Seminar at Boca CryoTM. We introduce breathing techniques followed by either an ice bath or whole body cryotherapy. After just one session, participants find it easier to deal with the stress of entering a stress-induced atmosphere like extreme cold. Breath work is an amazingly effective way of controlling stress levels!
Conclusion
Effective recovery techniques are essential for competitive tennis players to manage stress, enhance performance, and prevent injuries. By incorporating any or all of the listed methods of recovery, players can better cope with the physical and mental demands of the game. Choosing the recovery strategy that is best for you, can help you stay on top of your game, perform optimally, and enjoy a successful tennis career….Stress Free!
Ian Pyka was a two-sport collegiate athlete and three-time All-American who made the Olympic team. Pyka went on to become the strength and conditioning coach at the Florida Panthers and New England Patriots. Pyka currently teaches at FAU's Exercise Science Department and owns Boca Cryo located at 190 Glades Rd., Suite C, in Boca Raton. Visit bocacryo.com to learn more.
Florida Tennis has a new member on its team! Jessica Bergen will be serving in a dual role as Associate Editor and Marketing Manager. Bergen was a former two-time captain on the women’s tennis team at Post University in Connecticut and coached high school tennis as well. She’s also currently pursuing an MBA in Sport Management at Florida Atlantic University.
Save the date! The “Little Mo” East Internationals (ages 8-16) is scheduled for December 6-11, 2024 at the Palm Beach Garden Tennis Center in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Registration opens soon at mcbtennis.com.
Coach Ed Krass’ 36th Annual College Tennis Exposure Camp has announced its next stop in Florida at Beerman Family Tennis Center in Lakeland on December 7-8, 2024. For more information, visit collegetennis.com.
DROP SHOTS
Congratulations to the American Tennis Association (ATA) for their Third Annual Ace Awards and Gala held at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando prior to the ATA’s National Championships at USTA National Campus in July. It was great to attend the Gala and see our friends at USTA Florida as presenting sponsor!
Join tennis legend and two-time Grand Slam Champion Sergi Bruguera for an exclusive corporate doubles event at Caribe Hilton, San Juan,1 C. San GerÓnimo, San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901. To learn more and reserve your spot at this event or for sponsorship opportunities, please call 757-897-4584 or email gmrproductions27@ gmail.com.
Check out the Biohackers World Conference & Expo coming to Miami this October 26-27, 2024! Get ready to dive into the world of biohacking with an incredible lineup of over 30 visionary experts and wellness pioneers that could help you elevate your game both on and off the court. Learn more at biohackers.world.
Can the Hurricanes do it again? Congrats to Alexa Noel for bringing the NCAA Singles Championship trophy back to the University of Miami after her three-set thriller at the Greenwood Tennis Center last season. Afterwards, UM elevated head women’s coach Paige Yaroshuk-Tews to Director of Men’s and Women’s Tennis and promoted Alex Santos to head men’s tennis coach. We wish them luck in the upcoming season!
World-renowned tennis coach Patrick Mouratoglou and The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón joined forces this summer to open the first Mouratoglou Tennis Center in Florida. It will feature a diverse array of programs including tennis camps, a kids’ program, private and group lessons, as well as exclusive offerings for Ritz-Carlton guests and members such as a leagues and round robin tournaments.
Ace Wear Tennis is dedicated to empowering women to play more tennis by providing stylish apparel that makes them feel beautiful and confident on the court. Founded by tennis enthusiast Xaid Owen, the brand merges passion for the game with a commitment to enhancing women's experiences through fashion. Join us in elevating women's tennis! aceweartennis.com // IG: @acewear_tennis
From Executive Producers LeBron James and Sloane Stephens, Uninterrupted's TOP CLASS TENNIS continues to stream on Amazon Prime Video and Amazon Freevee. The show features four junior players on their road to the famed Florida Orange Bowl, with stops at the Eddie Herr Tournament and the IMG campus in Bradenton. @primevideo // @amazonfreevee // @uninterrupted
DETA International Tournaments, a series of two-day junior tennis tournaments are coming to David Ensignia Tennis Academy at the Continental Tennis Center, 10001 SW 82nd Ave., Miami, FL 33156. Six different tournaments run from December 7th –18th. To learn more, visit davidensigniatennis.com
"THE MOST UNDERUSED WEAPON IN TENNIS? THE UNDERHAND SERVE."
GINO FAVA
WATCH MY YOUTUBE VIDEO FOR AN EXCLUSIVE LESSON ON HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR GAME
Serena Williams is known around the world for tennis. Although she's originally from California, her junior training days were spent at the Rick Macci Tennis Academy in Florida. Serena's tennis improved quickly under Macci's expert guidance. But her strokes were also influenced, strangely, by skateboarding.
How? Well, it turns out that the 23-time major champion tried skateboarding early on but didn't do so well. According to her new eight-part documentary series on ESPN, "In the Arena: Serena Williams," she tells the story of a skateboarding fall that changed her tennis strokes forever.
"All my dreams weren't on the tennis court," Williams explained in the first episode. "I learned guitar and started listening to Green Day. I became a low-key punk rocker because I loved Bad Religion and Rancid. Back then I loved to skateboard. That's how I got a good forehand.
"One day I was at school and I didn't want to be there so I just took my skateboard out and I went skateboarding in the neighborhood and fell and hurt my wrist really bad. I never told my dad.
"I couldn't really hit backhands, so I was like I want to work on my forehand today, I want my forehand to get better."
Her sister, Venus, the better player at the time, distinctly remembers the skateboard incident. "We remember her forehand getting much bigger after that," Venus said, laughing. "I thought maybe I should have fallen."
How good was Serena's forehand? Florida Tennis asked Rick Macci his take on Serena's incredible forehand. According to Macci, "Serena's forehand was clean with a tight spin and was a blend of great early preparation and balance."
Macci also emphasized how her footwork helped her forehand. "Downstairs with her feet, the Compton Comet was popping the popcorn — extra butter — but most of all on the run you were done, as she found acute angles with quality the world has never, ever seen," he explained.
To learn more about Serena's incredible story, be sure to check out "In the Arena: Serena Williams," on ESPN. The series is directed by Gotham Chopra and co-produced by ESPN, Religion of Sports, Tom Brady’s 199 Productions, and Williams and Caroline Currier’s Nine Two Six Productions.
ALLISON BAIR RECEIVES KELLEY FAMILY AWARD
Allison is an 11 year old who plays at the Hunter Green Tennis Club, located just north of Tampa. She was nominated by Board Member and YTF Treasurer, Tug Miller, who says that she is a young girl who loves playing the game of tennis, shows great potential and demonstrates good sportsmanship and character. She takes lessons from Alegra Campos, a former top Florida junior, who is the daughter of George Pero, a long-time, highly respected tennis pro from the Miami area. Allison says that tennis is an "amazing sport and it's a game I want to play for the rest of my life."
Pictured below are Tug, Alegra and Allison.
Congratulations, Allison, and best of luck in the pursuit of your dreams.
Photo (top left): Boss Tweed from New York, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Photo (bottom right): Courtesy of Rick Macci
VIP FANTASY DOUBLES EVENT
Join Tennis legend Sergi Bruguera for an exclusive corporate doubles event
Play doubles with 2-time Grand Slam Champion Sergi Bruguera
After doubles, enjoy a corporate luncheon interacting with world champion Sergi Bruguera
Special corporate exposure: San Juan Tennis Clinic for children
Registration Fee: $2,500
Schedule: TBD (limited space available)
To purchase and reserve your spot at this event or for sponsorship opportunities
