International Tennis Hall of Fame Open Returns
This week, the historic Bellevue Avenue courts in Newport are set to attract significant attention as the renowned International Tennis Hall of Fame Open returns. Viewers can catch a special live segment devoted to this esteemed tournament during ESPN’s traveling broadcast “SportsCenter: 50 States in 50 Days,” which is scheduled to air at 6 p.m.
Tournament Details
The Hall of Fame Open is an essential highlight on the tennis calendar, taking place this year from July 6 to 13. Classified as both an ATP Challenger Tour event and a WTA Tour 125-format competition, the tournament sees 32 singles players and 16 pairs competing in both women’s and men’s divisions. Participants will compete on grass courts, with a total prize pool of $200,000 awaiting the champions.
The matches will initiate with qualifying rounds for singles on July 6 and 7. The tournament’s main draw kicks off on July 7, encompassing the Round of 32, and will stretch over two days. Women’s doubles will join the lineup on July 7, while the men’s doubles matches will commence the following day. The finals are set to conclude the event on July 13.
Highlights and Special Events
A notable highlight this year is the inclusion of women’s professional tennis in the Hall of Fame Open, marking the first time since the 1998 Virginia Slims Invitational that such a feature has occurred. In a progressive step toward gender equality in the sport, this year’s tournament will offer equal prize money for men and women participants.
Additionally, fans can anticipate a special induction ceremony during this event, where tennis legends Bob and Mike Bryan, along with Maria Sharapova, will be honored. Unlike previous years when the ceremony coincided with the tournament, this year it is scheduled for August 23.
Attending and Viewing Options
For those looking to attend, tickets can be bought on a day-to-day basis through the Hall of Fame Open’s official website, with options also available for an all-tournament package at a discounted rate.
Switching gears for viewing, while Wimbledon captures the attention on ESPN this week, tennis lovers can tune in to the Tennis Channel for coverage of the Hall of Fame Open. For those specifically interested in following the women’s matches, a free stream is accessible via the WTA Tour website.
This year’s tournament promises thrilling matches and moments as it celebrates its return to Newport amid a commitment to inclusive competition and recognition of tennis icons.
