World Class Tennis returns to Sarasota with the Sarasota Open

[Amy Warren, LMHC / WQ Mag Columnist]

Photo 2010 Sarasota Open by WQmag.com

 

Once again, world class tennis returns to Sarasota with the Sarasota Open, a USTA/ATP professional tournament. Qualifying rounds will be played April 23rd through April 25th when the main draw begins. The main draw continues throughout the week until the semi-finals begin on Saturday, April 30th with the final competition being played on Sunday, May 1st.  Last year’s Sarasota Open attracted 30,000 patrons from around the world to the world-class tennis facilities at Longboat Key Club and Resort’s Tennis Gardens. This year, fans will enjoy the addition of a visible scoreboard on center court and digital speed guns tracking player’s serves.  Fox Sports Network will be broadcasting the event, establishing Sarasota as a go-to destination for future sporting event vacationers. As this year’s purse money increases to $75,000, The Sarasota Open becomes an official USTA Pro Circuit event. The added money means increased exposure for our area, attracting higher ranked players and meaning inclusion in the media’s daily Associated Press wire.

 

The tournament attracts some of the top players in the world. The Sarasota Open is an opportunity for players to prepare their clay court skills for the 2011 French Open which follows the tournament. Last year’s winner, Kei Nishikori went on to play the 2010 French Open and played Rafael Nadal in a wild card slot at Wimbledon. Andy Roddick, Maria Sharapova, and Andy Murray are some of the top stars that began their career with the USTA Pro Circuit.

 

This year, the Sarasota Open Foundation formed to continue the tournament’s mission to benefit children in need.  A portion of event revenues will donated to approved charities including Taking Back Lives, Caring for Children and the Boys and Girls Club. The foundation has already benefitted from the proceeds of Sea Fair and Tennis under the Stars. Upcoming fundraising events include the 2011 Players Party on Monday, April 25^th and the Dance Art Food Festival on Saturday, April 30^th.  Even if you don’t have a penchant for tennis, it’s still fun to mingle with the players. Located in a downtown penthouse, the Players Party is going to be a party you won’t want to miss.

 

Last year’s Sarasota Open was definitely a sight to be seen. If you have any interest in tennis, then don’t miss this opportunity to see world class tennis played right on our home courts. Spending time at the lovely remodeled Tennis Gardens at the Longboat Key Club and Resort only adds to the enjoyment.