World TeamTennis 2019: A Star-Studded Season Ahead
The 2019 World TeamTennis (WTT) season is set to be one of the most thrilling yet, boasting a remarkable lineup of tennis legends and rising stars. Fans can expect an exciting blend of seasoned veterans and fresh talent as the teams compete for the prestigious King Trophy. This year’s draft has unveiled several high-profile picks and returning players, promising intense matches and fierce competition.
Draft Highlights and Key Players
Top Picks and Veteran Players
One of the biggest highlights of the WTT draft was the selection of WTA veteran Kirsten Flipkens by the New York Empire. A former Wimbledon semifinalist, Flipkens has been a strong force in tennis, and her return to the Empire roster has fans buzzing. Alongside Flipkens, notable players like Venus Williams, John Isner, and Victoria Azarenka will also grace the courts. These tennis stars have made their mark on the international stage, and their participation guarantees exciting matchups throughout the season.
Rising Stars Join the Roster
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.
A Look at Team Lineups
World TeamTennis’ format brings together men and women to compete on the same stage, creating a unique dynamic that sets it apart from other tennis leagues. The teams for the 2019 season are packed with talent, and the draft selections have only added more firepower.
New York Empire’s Roster
The New York Empire has put together a formidable lineup for the 2019 season. Along with Flipkens, the Empire will feature American powerhouse John Isner and returning players Neal Skupski and Maria Jose Martinez Sanchez. Under the guidance of new coach Luke Jensen, the team aims to make a strong push for the championship.
Springfield Lasers Aim to Defend Their Title
The defending champions, the Springfield Lasers, are looking to retain their title with a solid roster led by Miomir Kecmanovic. The team also boasts WTA doubles star Abi Spears, who has been a key player for the Lasers. With Joe Salisbury, Enrique Lopez Perez, and Anna Blinkova rounding out the team, the Lasers are poised to be strong contenders once again.
Notable Teams to Watch
Other teams to watch include the Vegas Rollers and Orlando Storm, two new franchises that are making their WTT debut this season. The Rollers, led by coach Tim Blenkiron, will rely on American Sam Querrey and the legendary doubles duo of Mike and Bob Bryan. Meanwhile, the Orlando Storm has recruited 2017 U.S. Open finalist Madison Keys as their Franchise Player, and the team is expected to be a tough competitor under the leadership of coach Scott Lipsky.
| Team | Key Players | Coach |
|---|---|---|
| New York Empire | John Isner, Kirsten Flipkens | Luke Jensen |
| Springfield Lasers | Miomir Kecmanovic, Abi Spears | John-Laffnie de Jager |
| Vegas Rollers | Sam Querrey, Mike and Bob Bryan | Tim Blenkiron |
| Orlando Storm | Madison Keys, Whitney Osuigwe | Scott Lipsky |
| Washington Kastles | Nick Kyrgios, Venus Williams | Murphy Jensen |
Exciting Matchups and Key Dates
Mark Your Calendars
World TeamTennis 2019 will run from July 14 to 31, and there are several key dates that fans won’t want to miss. The action will kick off with matches featuring top players like Venus Williams, Miomir Kecmanovic, and Madison Keys. The Springfield Lasers, as defending champions, will be one of the first teams to take the court, playing matches on July 14, 16, 17, and 18.
Televised Matches to Watch
For those who can’t attend in person, several matches will be broadcast live on CBS Sports Network, including key games featuring the Vegas Rollers and the New York Empire. The Lasers’ July 21 match against Philadelphia will be particularly exciting, as it will showcase some of the most anticipated players of the season, including Sam Querrey. The WTT Finals will also be televised on August 3, giving fans across the globe a chance to witness the championship showdown.
New Franchises Bring Fresh Energy
World Team Tennis has expanded for its 44th season, welcoming two new franchises: the Vegas Rollers and the Orlando Storm. These additions have not only increased the number of teams but have also brought fresh energy and new rivalries to the league.
Vegas Rollers’ Debut
The Vegas Rollers, one of the league’s newest teams, have assembled a strong lineup that includes local talent like Asia Muhammad and international stars like the Bryan brothers. With their home matches set at the Orleans Arena, fans in Las Vegas are eager to support their team in its inaugural season. Coach Tim Blenkiron, who has deep ties to the Las Vegas tennis scene, is optimistic about the team’s chances, and all eyes will be on their performance during their first home game on July 20.
Orlando Storm’s Bold Start
The Orlando Storm, led by coach Scott Lipsky, will also be making waves this season. With Madison Keys as their Franchise Player, the team has a solid foundation of talent. Their first-ever draft pick, 16-year-old Whitney Osuigwe, adds a youthful spark to the roster. The Storm’s home matches will be played at the USTA National Campus in Lake Nona, Florida, and the team will be looking to make an impact right from the start.
The Importance of Team Format
One of the unique aspects of World TeamTennis is its team-based format. Unlike traditional tennis tournaments, where players compete individually, WTT brings together men and women on the same team, competing in a variety of match formats. This collaborative approach adds an extra layer of strategy and excitement to the competition. Teams must balance their lineups carefully, ensuring that they have strong singles players, reliable doubles teams, and a deep bench to cover all the match formats.
Mixed Doubles: A Fan Favorite
Mixed doubles matches are a highlight of every WTT season, and this year promises to be no different. The unique blend of male and female talent on the court often leads to some of the most thrilling and unpredictable moments. Fans can look forward to seeing star pairings like Madison Keys and her partner facing off against some of the league’s best mixed doubles teams.
Strategic Coaching Plays a Key Role
Coaching plays a significant role in World TeamTennis, as teams must adjust their strategies match by match. Coaches like Luke Jensen of the New York Empire and Scott Lipsky of the Orlando Storm will be crucial in guiding their teams through the season. Their ability to make quick decisions and motivate players will be tested in this high-pressure environment
The Road to the WTT Finals
As the regular season wraps up on July 31, the top teams will advance to the WTT playoffs, beginning with the semifinals on August 2. The WTT Finals will be held on August 3 at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, where the remaining teams will battle it out for the coveted King Trophy.
Defending Champions Face Tough Competition
The Springfield Lasers, as the reigning champions, are under pressure to defend their title. However, with teams like the New York Empire, Washington Kastles, and Vegas Rollers looking strong, it won’t be an easy road to the finals. The competition will be fierce, and fans can expect some intense matchups as the top teams fight for their spot in the championship game.
A Season to Remember
With a mix of tennis legends, rising stars, and new franchises, the 2019 World TeamTennis season is shaping up to be one for the history books. The blend of talent and the unique team format ensure that every match will be full of excitement and drama. Whether you’re tuning in from home or cheering from the stands, this season promises to deliver unforgettable moments on the court.
The Road to the WTT FinalsThe final matchups in August will crown the new champion, but the journey there will be filled with surprises and standout performances from some of the best players in the world.