Sand Valley, WI July 15-17
By Steven Virgona
The 2024 US National Open was played at the newest tennis court in the world at Sand Valley, Wisconsin, from July 15-17. Set on 12,000 acres of sand dunes in central Wisconsin and comprising five world-class golf courses, it is a majestic place to play court tennis. 12 players (11 professionals and one amateur) traveled from Chicago, New York, Boston, Aiken, Philadelphia and Washington D.C. to compete for the title. With the court new to all the players and no experience to draw from, it would be interesting to see how everyone would adapt to unfamiliar territory. The matches went largely according to seeding, except for Pete Dickinson’s breakthrough win against his experienced opponent, Conor Medlow. Pete played the best match of his career to date, with consistent tight railroads and accurate forcing being the deciding factor, winning a tight contest 4-6 6-5 6-1. John Lumley has been in good form of late and kept that momentum going, winning his semi-final in straight sets over Leon Smart 6-1 6-0. Nick Howell and Steve Virgona have met in tournaments regularly over the last few years, and Nick managed to come out on top on this occasion, winning a close match 6-3 6-5.
The final between John and Nick was a match of the highest quality. Both players produced their best tennis, but John won the pivotal points in the first two sets, pulling ahead 6-2 6-1 in the best-of-five-set match. Nick staged a spirited comeback, but John wasn’t to be denied as he closed out the third set and the match 6-3. The 2024 National Open Pro-Am was staged on the day of the final and was won by Baker Thompson and Steve Virgona over Jonathan Lewis and Rob Whitehouse, 8-6.
Special thanks must go to Sand Valley owners Mike and Chris Keiser for hosting the tournament, as well as to General Manager Michael Carbiener and the rest of the friendly Sand Valley staff, who were so welcoming and looked after the players so well. Thanks also to the USCTA for their support and to the Pro-Am players and other spectators who traveled to Sand Valley to contribute to the event’s success.
The Sand Valley tennis court plays beautifully, with fantastic natural and artificial light, smooth, consistent surfaces, a high ceiling, climate control and great viewing with the Gallery restaurant above the court’s service wall. It’s a place that should be on everyone’s list of courts to play.
Comments from the Players
Playing in the National Open at the new court in Sand Valley this past week was a unique experience. The court’s modern design and excellent condition provided a great setting for the matches. The fresh court surface allowed for consistent play, making it a pleasure to compete. The Staff at Sand Valley added a welcoming atmosphere to the event, making Sand Valley a notable addition to the tournament circuit.
– Rob Whitehouse
I thoroughly enjoyed my time playing the National Open at Sand Valley. The Court is beautiful looking court and played remarkably true
for such a new court . The restaurant upstairs overlooking the tennis court was brilliant as well as the selection of food at drinks. The players were well looked after, getting to stay on site at the lovely Sand Valley Apartments with drinks and food covered. The golf courses looked amazing, unfortunately I did not get to play them, but I did get to play the par 3 course called the Sandbox which was very fun.
This is a bucket list destination for all Court Tennis players and Golfers. Thank you to Steve Virgona, Colin Lumley, and everyone at Sand Valley for making us feel so welcome and looking after us so well.
– Nick Howell
I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the new Court Tennis court at Sand Valley. It was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The court was beautifully built, with a perfect blend of classic and modern design elements. It’s not every day that you get to play a court for the first time and it was truly something special. Sand Valley has created a wonderful spot for court tennis enthusiasts like myself to enjoy the game! I can’t wait to be back there soon for another tournament.
– John Lumley
I had the pleasure of attending the highly anticipated grand opening of the prestigious Sand Valley Court Tennis facility. I must say, it exceeded all expectations from the moment I stepped foot onto the immaculately built new court. The setting itself was breathtaking with the court nestled amidst the stunning golf courses. Spectators, organizers and fellow players were treated to exceptional play with a grand finale between John Lumley and Nicky Howell.
– Ross Bolling
The US National Open at Sand Valley was one of the absolute highlights of the recent Pro schedule. The court is stunning and plays beautifully, with smaller winning openings encouraging play on the floor. The staff at Sand Valley couldn’t have been more welcoming and generous to us. We are lucky to have Tennis at such an incredible facility, it is a must visit for Tennis players (and golfers!) alike.
– Adrian Kemp
For the complete results and streaming links, CLICK HERE
