CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A new premier tennis exhibition featuring some of the world's best players will come to Spectrum Center in December, the Charlotte Sports Foundation announced on Wednesday.
Four of the sport's biggest names — Carlos Alcaraz, Frances Tiafoe, Madison Keys and Sloane Stephens — will take part in the double-header event on Friday, Dec. 6. Alcaraz, the defending Wimbledon champion who won the French Open, is the youngest male tennis player to win a Grand Slam on all three playing surfaces.
Fans are looking forward to the event. Daniel Belsito played at Wingate College and said, “what more as a tennis fan as a tennis player lifelong, what more could you ask for?”
"All eyes will be on Charlotte as some of the biggest names in tennis face off in an event unlike any other," Danny Morrison, executive director of the Charlotte Sports Foundation, said. “Expect unparalleled, elevated hospitality that only the Queen City can provide and, of course, elite competition in a sport that’s captivated the world.”
Match times are still to be determined and an event sponsor will be announced at a later date, organizers said.
Morrison noticed the interest for tennis in Charlotte, following last year's fallout over plans to bring the Western & Southern Open to the Queen City.
“That just spoke to the interest of tennis and Charlotte, and it's a great tennis area, the whole Carolinas, and we believe that there'll be amazing attendance for this event," he said.
“It's a great consolation prize but as long as it's a regular thing, and they're not just coming down once," Belsito added.
"I am appreciative for the opportunity to compete in the Charlotte Invitational this December," Alcaraz said. “Fans can expect an incredible night and we look forward to providing an unforgettable experience for all in attendance!”
Tickets for the Charlotte Invitational will go on sale in July. Fans can click here for more details.
Contact Myles Harris at mharris5@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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