New York City became a hub for tennis elite last week as the US Open kicked off, drawing top players to a series of exclusive events. Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka was a notable attendee at several gatherings.
Last Wednesday, Osaka was present at an intimate event held at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge. The following evening, she participated in the Fourth Annual Petit Slam at the Baccarat Hotel New York, where she competed in a ping pong match against Gayle King. The match, officiated by Rich Kleiman, CEO of Boardroom, took place on the hotel's crystal-clad table, with Osaka ultimately securing the win.
Tennis Stars at Various Events
Serena Williams was also active, attending the ninth annual Palace Invitational pickleball tournament at Lotte New York Palace on Thursday evening. She was joined by fellow players Taylor Fritz, Matteo Berrettini, and Caroline Wozniacki.
Meanwhile, the Waldorf Astoria New York hosted its first annual Ballroom Tennis Invitational within its Grand Ballroom. Andy Roddick emceed the event, with Sam Querrey serving as umpire and commentator. Notable participants included Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton, Leylah Fernandez, and Maria Sakkari. Among the other notable figures present were Anna Wintour, Matt Friend, Daniel Boulud, and Gracie Cashman. Guests enjoyed culinary creations and cocktails while sipping Moët & Chandon.
Venus Williams was spotted on Friday at Flyfish Members Club for Taste of Tennis, a VIP event in partnership with VCR Group. Comedian and actor Matt Friend hosted the celebration, which featured appearances by other top players, food, and partner activations. Attendees included Fritz, Berrettini, Wozniacki, Brandon Nakashima, Karolina Muchová, Genie Bouchard, and Tomás Etcheverry. David Rodolitz, CEO of VCR Group, and Penny Lerner of AYS Sports Marketing were also present. The event included music from Scram Jones and Kristina Korobova and a discreet omakase counter.
Singer Bebe Rexha also marked her 37th birthday with celebrations in the city. She had dinner at TAO on Saturday, followed by a party at Loosie’s Nightclub. Rexha was welcomed with a birthday marquee and received bottles of Grey Goose and Casamigos Reposado. She engaged with the crowd, singing along to her hits as the DJ played her music, and danced until approximately 2 a.m.
