ATP World Tour tennis begins its nine-day run in Atlanta on Saturday, July 19, with the 2014 BB&T Atlanta Open at Atlantic Station.
Featuring some of the top stars in the world of men’s tennis, the BB&T Atlanta Open is an ATP World Tour 250 event and it’s the first event of the 2014 Emirates Airline U.S. Open Series, which leads right into the U.S. Open in New York.
BB&T Atlanta Open tournament director, Eddie Gonzalez says this event just keeps getting bigger and better ever year, but the goals remain the same.
“Our goals are to make ourselves accountable in growth and in sponsorships,” offers up the first-year tournament director.
He goes on to say that he also tries to land the best player field he can, and this year may be one of the event’s best.
Defending champ, John Isner, a former Georgia Bulldog All-American returns to defend his title. It won’t be easy with the likes of Richard Gasquet and Gael Monfils of France lurking in the draw. Add in a dangerous Kevin Anderson and a tricky veteran in Radek Stepank, and Atlanta tennis fans will have a chance to see some great matchups on the hardcourts at Atlantic Station.
Gonzalez also said it’s his mission to make the tournament fan friendly.
“The first weekend (qualifying matches), kids get in for free with a paid adult,” added Gonzalez.
He has also added in special theme nights like a Military Appreciation Night, a College Night, and once again the lady tennis fans of the area will have their own night.
The popular cover band, Yacht Rock Revue will play a concert in the tennis stadium on Wednesday night and on the final sunday, local heroes and champions will be honored along with the event champions.
The tournament also has new food sponsors and vendors this year, so bring your appetite. Atlantic Station is one of the best multi-use developments in the country, so you need to come out and see what is going on.
Make it a point to come out and see world class singles and doubles and see what tennis is one of the best sports to watch in person.
The Qualifying Draw runs July 19-20, and the Main Draw from July 21-27.
Tickets can be purchased at www.bbtatlantaopen.com or at the box office.
Parking in available on site at Atlantic Station and ESPN and Tennis Channel will be giving the event and the city of Atlanta, national and international exposure.
