The US Open is going strong in Flushing Meadows, but a handful of local athletes played a more intimate game of tennis with some star power at the South Street Seaport in Lower Manhattan Tuesday night.
Tennis legend Andy Roddick held a special tennis clinic for New Yorkers — and visiting New Yorkers — who have a passion for the game.
Roddick, the last American to win the US Open Men’s Tournament in 2003, gave the athletes tips for improving their game before they took on the retired tennis pro in a playful match in which everyone was a winner.
‘Everyone did great’
Roddick used a full-size court set up specifically for the clinic on The Rooftop at Pier 17 Seaport, which usually hosts concerts and other events throughout the year, to show participants how to improve their serve, volley better and take more successful shots overall.
“Everyone did great,” Roddick said after the hour-long session.
As a sponsor of the US Open, Chase held the clinic as one of several events and activities for New Yorkers on-site at the world-famous competition and around the city. The clinics Roddick hosted this week were held specifically for Chase Sapphire cardholders.
Most participants attended because they love tennis, admire Roddick or both.
“I was a great player, once upon a time when I was very small. I haven’t played in about 10 years because it’s quite hard to play in New York,” Oscar Travers, who lives nearby but hails from England, said.
Travers, a fan of Roddick, jumped at the chance to join the clinic, especially since tennis options in the city are limited.
“Either you wait three hours for a court or pay exorbitant amounts of money,” he said.
As for his self-proclaimed average tennis skills, Travers took to the court with confidence, demonstrating serves, volleys and backhands that could match those of a pro.
The more-than-amateur player did a post-clinic interview with amNewYork Metro. He was all smiles and shared his thoughts while appearing exhilarated but still modest about his impressive skills.
“It was amazing,” he said. “A bit rusty, absolutely,” he said of his session, adding that the wind was a bit challenging.
After the clinic, the participants were treated to a sit-down meet-and-greet with Roddick, during which he answered questions about tennis and his career.
All New Yorkers can play tennis at The Rooftop at Pier 17 Seaport this week. Rooftop tennis is open to the public outside of scheduled events through Friday, Aug. 30. The court offers breathtaking views of the city, and rackets and tennis balls are provided.
More fun at the US Open
Chase has a variety of perks on-site for its customers who are attending the US Open. The Chase Lounge is where customers can enjoy complimentary refreshments, get customized tennis merchandise and beat the heat in a newly renovated area.
The Chase Terrace also offers outdoor tennis viewing with shaded seating and views of some of the courts (available for Chase customers only on a first-come, first-served basis).
Check out chase.com for more on-site US Open fun.
