The Tennis Classic of Macon

Due to COVID-19 Guidelines No Spectators allowed in 2020 – We can’t wait to see everyone in 2021

Following up on the successful return of professional tennis to Middle Georgia in 2013, the stakes will be higher this year with more prize money, a stronger field and the pressure of playing for a berth in the Australian Open hanging in the balance. Thanks to presenting sponsor in The W.L. Amos Sr. Foundation, the tournament continues to be a 50K event and a top draw on the USTA Pro Circuit calendar.

This means a stronger field and added importance leading into the Australian Open. Eric-Hayes-Danielle-JonesTournament director and Mercer University Head Men’s and Women’s Tennis Coach Eric Hayes said the feedback he received about the tournament in the previous year, held at Stratford Academy, was 100% positive. “I was blown away,” said Hayes. “From the players, to the support of the sponsors and the Macon tennis community, it was a great event. ”Hayes says he is always looking for additional partners for the tournament and there still is time to get involved. “It was great to see the entire Macon tennis community get behind the tournament and interact with the players,” explained Hayes. “Talking to the players, I think they had even more fun than the fans. We need to continue getting that support and then keep building on it.”This year, with the USTA Tennis Classic of Macon moving to a 50K women’s event, tennis fans in Middle Georgia can expect to see more top-100 players, and many of the top American competing along with live streaming of the event.“Many of the players we had last year, just finished competing in the U.S. Open in New York,” added Hayes.” “Players like Anna Tatishvili (2013 Champion) and Ajla Tomljanovic(2013 Finalist) along with Madison Brengle and Nicole Gibbs all played in the main draw in New York.”Hayes says once again the tournament will host a pro am where local tennis players can play against the pros. A “players party” will also be held this year at a local restaurant.Tickets will be available soon, and volunteers will be needed once again. Call Mercer tennis coach and tournament director Eric Hayes at (478) 301-2269

About the USTA Pro Circuit

With approximately 90 tournaments hosted annually throughout the country and prize money ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, the USTA Pro Circuit is the pathway to the US Open and tour-level competition for aspiring tennis players and a frequent battleground for established professionals. Celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2014, the USTA Pro Circuit provides players with the opportunity to gain professional ranking points, and it has since grown to become the largest developmental tennis circuit in the world, offering nearly $3 million in prize money. Last year, more than 1,000 men and women from more than 70 countries competed in cities nationwide. John Isner, Maria Sharapova, Sam Querrey, Sloane Stephens, Mardy Fish, Victoria Azarenka and Andy Murray are among today’s top stars who began their careers on the USTA Pro Circuit.