STOWE, VT- With the US Open right around the corner, six top ATP pros competed in their final tune-up in a brand new exhibition tournament in Stowe, VT from August 22-24. The inaugural Stowe Mountain Lodge Classic was presented by Grand Slam Tennis Tours and featured tournament champion and World No. 24 Albert Ramos-Viñolas, former World No. 2 Tommy Haas, Jared Donaldson (51), Frances Tiafoe (71), Vasek Pospisil (78) and Jeremy Chardy (79).

Vermont has a rich history of tennis that dates back to 1978 in the same resort town. Jimmy Connors won the Stowe Open the first two of its six years in existence. Shortly after came the Volvo International (Stratton Mountain), the US Women’s Hardcourts (Stratton Mountain) and the Fed Cup (Stowe) in 2007.  

“The history of tennis in Vermont has been pretty strong I think everyone is really happy to have a new, fun event associated with tennis here,” said Grand Slam Tennis Tours owner Andrew Chmura. ADVERTISEMENT “We haven’t had an event since the Fed Cup on 2007 so I think people were really looking forward to it, and I think this is the start of something that’s really going to grow into something big.”

With first-class amenities and picturesque scenery both from on and around the court, players had overall positive reactions to the unique experience.

“They players loved it here. Two or three of them actually looked to buy condos,” Chmura said. “The vibe has been really good and relaxed. The players can train really hard but also let it go a little bit before they are ready to ramp it up for the US Open.”

USTA New England set up a booth and mini court at the event promoting Net Generation, USTA’s new youth brand. The goal of Net Generation is to capture the imaginations of kids of all backgrounds and skill levels through a variety of programs, teaching and learning tools—bringing together a national community of parents, coaches, players, teachers, and volunteers.

“We were excited to bring Net Generation to the Stowe Mountain Lodge Classic this year. Nearly every child who attended the tournament played on our court and some were even lucky enough to play with Vasek Pospisil and Tommy Haas. We are happy to support this unique event and our official travel partner, Grand Slam Tennis Tours,” said Alex Wesley, USTA New England Marketing Director.

The US Open begins on August 28, and is expected to feature all Stowe participants with the exception of Tommy Haas.