World TeamTennis 2019: A Star-Studded Season Ahead
In 2020, the legendary Bryan Brothers, widely regarded as the greatest doubles team in tennis history, embarked on their farewell tour. They chose to spend this season playing for the Vegas Rollers in World TeamTennis (WTT). Joining them was Las Vegas native and tennis star Sam Querrey, forming a formidable lineup. The team scheduled seven key matches at The Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, with additional appearances in major cities like San Diego and New York. Fans eagerly anticipated an exciting season of team tennis with a mix of seasoned pros and emerging talents.
Bryan Brothers’ Illustrious Career Comes to a Close
The Bryan Brothers, Mike and Bob, dominated the tennis doubles scene for over two decades. They built an unparalleled legacy, winning a total of 16 Grand Slam titles and an impressive 118 ATP doubles titles. What sets them apart is their extraordinary career-winning percentage of over 75%. Even after Bob Bryan’s hip surgery in 2018, the brothers made a remarkable comeback, securing titles in Delray Beach and Miami, and performing strongly at the Australian Open and Acapulco. Their accomplishments also include an Olympic gold medal from the 2012 London Olympics, and their popularity was cemented as they were voted the ATP Fans’ Favorite Doubles Team 14 times.
Notable Career Achievements of the Bryan Brothers
In addition to veteran players, this year’s draft also introduced rising talents like Miomir Kecmanovic, who was named the Franchise Player for the Springfield Lasers. Kecmanovic is expected to be a standout this season, and his performance could play a pivotal role in the team’s defense of the King Trophy. Other notable young talents include Ulises Blanch, who was selected by the New York Empire, and Whitney Osuigwe, drafted by the Orlando Storm.
The Bryan Brothers’ dominance on the court isn’t just in their numbers; they revolutionized doubles tennis, making it more popular and commercially viable. Their ability to consistently deliver high-energy matches earned them a special place in tennis history.
Sam Querrey’s Role in the Vegas Rollers’ 2020 Season
Sam Querrey, known for his big serve and powerful groundstrokes, is another notable player for the Vegas Rollers. His career includes impressive victories over tennis legends such as Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal. Querrey’s connection to Las Vegas, his home city, added a special dynamic to his participation in the 2020 WTT season. He had played for the Rollers during their inaugural season in 2019 and expressed excitement about contributing to the team’s pursuit of the King Trophy.
Querrey’s involvement in the WTT not only brings his powerful game to the team but also strengthens the local support base, as fans in Las Vegas cheered on their hometown hero throughout the season.
A Power-Packed Lineup for the Vegas Rollers
The Vegas Rollers boasted more than just the Bryan Brothers and Sam Querrey in their 2020 lineup. The team featured Asia Muhammad, a rising talent from Las Vegas, known for her strong doubles play. Muhammad’s inclusion further enriched the team’s dynamic, making the Rollers one of the most exciting teams to watch. Additionally, the coaching staff brought its own flair, with head coach Tim Blenkiron returning, and assistant coach Redfoo, the pop music star, adding a unique flavor to the team’s culture.
This mix of experienced veterans and upcoming stars gave the Vegas Rollers a balanced team capable of taking on any opponent in the league.
| Player | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|
| Bryan Brothers | 16 Grand Slam titles, 118 career titles |
| Sam Querrey | Career victories over Djokovic and Nadal |
| Asia Muhammad | Rising talent and Las Vegas resident |
The 2020 WTT Season: A Milestone for World TeamTennis
The 2020 season wasn’t just about star players. WTT has been gaining attention as a format that brings high-energy, team-based tennis to a wide audience. The team format creates a unique environment that differs from the more traditional one-on-one competition seen in most tennis tournaments. WTT adds excitement through fast-paced matches, intense crowd engagement, and the camaraderie of team sports.
In 2020, WTT introduced additional prize money and hosted a “Celebrity All-Star Match,” featuring top players like the Bryan Brothers, Querrey, Maria Sharapova, and other rising American stars. The inclusion of celebrities and tennis legends in these matches added an extra layer of entertainment and appeal to fans, making WTT a staple for tennis enthusiasts looking for thrilling, team-oriented action.
The Future of the Bryan Brothers and the Next Generation
While 2020 marked the end of the Bryan Brothers’ storied tennis career, they haven’t stepped away from sports altogether. Recently, the brothers have been involved in discussions about transitioning to professional pickleball, a fast-growing racquet sport. They aim to bring their competitive spirit and passion to this new arena, helping to elevate pickleball to greater heights.
In addition to exploring pickleball, the Bryan Brothers have expressed their desire to inspire the next generation of athletes. Through their involvement in youth programs and sports development initiatives, they remain committed to growing racquet sports and supporting young athletes across the globe.
