The Waldorf Astoria New York transformed its legendary Grand Ballroom into a full-size tennis court for a one-night-only event on Aug. 27. Professional tennis stars Ben Shelton, Tommy Paul, Leylah Fernandez, and Maria Sakkari competed in exhibition matches beneath the room’s crystal chandeliers and Art Deco flourishes in front of 400 onlookers.
Ballroom Tennis Makes History at the Newly Restored Waldorf Astoria
Met Gala Chair Anna Wintour attended the matches.
“This journey has always been transformational for us, you know, reopening the Waldorf Astoria and restoring this beautiful hotel has always been a journey of transformation. So we thought, ‘Why don’t we transform the Grand Ballroom into something no one has ever experienced before?'” Luigi Romaniello, the managing director of the Waldorf, told NY1.
Luxury Hospitality, Tennis-Themed Cocktails, and Chef-Driven Dining
Throughout the U.S. Open, the hotel’s Lex Yard restaurant is featuring tennis-themed cocktails such as the Racquet Club and the Backhand Ballroom, developed by the restaurant team, according to NY1. Nick Bathurst, the director of food and beverage, told NY1 that the drinks represent the events happening across the building during tournament week.
Did you know?
The Racquet Club at Lex Yard Extends Tournament Week
From Sept. 8 to Sept. 13, the hotel will operate The Racquet Club at Lex Yard, offering live match viewing alongside special food and beverage options, culminating in a watch party for the men’s final on Sunday, according to NY1. The initiative follows an eight-year renovation and restoration of the Midtown hotel, which reopened last year, as noted by NY1.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Waldorf Astoria Grand Ballroom host tennis matches?
Professional tennis stars played exhibition matches in the Grand Ballroom on Aug. 27, marking the venue’s first time hosting a tennis court.
Which tennis players participated in the Ballroom Tennis Invitational?
Ben Shelton, Tommy Paul, Leylah Fernandez, and Maria Sakkari competed in the one-night-only exhibition event.
How long was the Waldorf Astoria closed for renovations?
The Midtown hotel underwent an eight-year renovation and restoration before reopening last year.
Where can guests watch the remainder of the U.S. Open events at the hotel?
From Sept. 8 to Sept. 13, Lex Yard operates as The Racquet Club at Lex Yard, featuring live match viewing and specialty food and beverages.
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