Not every weekend offers the chance to relax poolside in the morning, savor celebrity-chef inspired meals in the evening, and play alongside former Grand Slam champions and top ATP and WTA stars in between. The annual Baha Mar Cup, however, is one of the few weekends that pairs everything from incredible, one-of-a-kind tennis experiences with upscale yet inviting dining and social events across the Caribbean property, Baha Mar.
Experience Baha Mar Cup with TRO’s Travel Editor
Within the grounds of the expansive yet luxurious resort, a stunning tennis center is situated adjacent to the Rosewood, one of three hotels on property. Complete with pristine hard and clay tennis courts, as well as pickleball courts, and centered around a coastal-inspired Pro Shop, the Baha Mar Tennis Center (now the The John McEnroe Tennis Center at Baha Mar), hosts The Baha Mar Cup, a weekend benefiting the Baha Mar Resort Foundation and the Mark Knowles Children’s Tennis Initiative.
As a former collegiate tennis player and TRO’s travel editor, I was completely thrilled to board the plane to Nassau, eagerly anticipating a weekend that I frankly had a hard time envisioning. I had only seen Nassau from the cruise port and have shared experiences with the pros typically only from media rooms or press conferences throughout my career; however, The Baha Mar Cup created an environment where my playing and spectating dreams intertwined, as well as my affinity for coastal luxury and breathtaking scenery.
Day 1: Unlocking Luxury
When receiving the weekend itinerary for the event, it was nothing short of iconic, yet it still left room to enjoy the pristine grounds of the Baha Mar resort, which is complete with everything from a centrally-located Casino to a secluded spa oasis to 10 pools and an on-site water park. Beginning with arranged airport transportation and hotel check-in, I unlocked a room with sweeping views of the ocean as well as the lush property grounds. For those eager to unpack their racquets and brush up on their skills, the Tennis Center was reserved for private training sessions throughout the afternoon with experienced coaching staff, who held low-ratio clinics throughout the afternoon.
After a refreshing shower and a few moments to secure a lite bite at one of Baha Mar’s many cuisine options, I walked towards the Nexus Club, where Andy Roddick began an on-site recording of his podcast, Served with Andy Roddick. He surprised the room with a delightful on-air guest, John McEnroe, who walked into the room while the crowd quickly exchanged their signature drinks for an uproar of applause. With all eyes and ears on two American greats, they spoke about topics such as travel, past and present pros, McEnroe’s decision to stay in the sport of tennis, and so much more.
Once the lights dimmed and filming was complete, we were pleasantly greeted by the weekend’s lineup of ATP and WTA stars, as well as host Mark Knowles, as we enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvre, live music, and an open bar at the Welcome Reception. The weekend had only just begun, yet the sheer excitement and anticipation for Saturday’s events was almost palpable throughout the room.
Day 2: The Main Event
Day two on Saturday was nothing short of exceptional and featured a full day of on and off-court events. The morning opened with a short warm-up clinic leading into the anticipated Pro Am where event attendees paired up with the game’s most notable stars. It goes without saying that, although slightly envious of the guests on court, I was delighted to not have the pressure to share the court with pros whose named have filled my TV screen for decades.
With four players on court, one of which was a former or current ATP or WTA professional, the competition was completely brilliant. Short sets inclusive of serves from Andy Roddick, volleys against John McEnroe, backhands versus Genie Bouchard, and drop shots from Milos Raonic, to name a few, highlighted the morning hours for all involved, including the crowd (and myself!) Standard tennis events allow you to observe the pros and legends, but Baha Mar Cup absolutely takes it to the next level.
We then took a short break to enjoy a freshly-prepared lunch inside Rosewood before heading back towards the Tennis Center for an afternoon in the stands. Mark Knowles kindly welcomed the weekend’s pros onto stadium court for an afternoon complete with singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, as well as plenty of entertainment and laughter on court.
To start the exhibition, Genie Bouchard played against Donna Vekic for a phenomenal women’s singles set. Next on court, the mixed teams of Taylor Townsend and Mark Knowles versus Victoria Azarenka and Austin Krajicek took the stage. Lastly, John McEnroe and Roanic battled against Roddick and Krajicek for the final round of the exhibition. The DJ filled the air with top hits and beats while the players excelled and entertained the crowd through not only their shots but also their commentary.
Day 2: The Final Hours
Day two concluded with a private dining experience at Marcus Up Top, one of Baha Mar’s newest dining experiences set against the scenic backdrop of the ocean on the second floor of Marcus Fish & Chop House. In partnership with Chef Marcus Samuelsson, the evening included a three-course meal crafted with the freshest ingredients as well as tasteful beverages in an intimate setting. As we shared these special moments with both the weekend’s guests as well as the pros, we were then welcomed to join a private area of the Jazz Club at Baha Mar, located adjacent to the sprawling casino within the resort. From upbeat hits to notable beats, the evening concluded with a special appearance from John McEnroe’s Band as they took the stage to perform for not only our section but for hotel goers as well.
Day 3: Parting Ways with Paradise
The final morning of Baha Mar Cup allowed for the opportunity to relax on property or to venture back to the Tennis Center for a morning kid’s clinic as well as a few hours of open play for the adults with the on-site coaching staff. I enjoyed a morning at the Fitness Center as well as a stroll across the property before I ended at the Tennis Center for a final few hours courtside. From the smiles and new skills forming on the hard courts with the kids to the instruction and intensity on the clay courts with the adults, Sunday morning was a culmination of one of the most special weekends of the year, where charity efforts and celebrity appearances meet Caribbean rejuvenation and beachside brilliance.
Planning a Vacation With Tennis in Mind
Whether you’re new to the game, seeking to observe competition, or hopeful to hone your skills on the court, Tennis Resorts Online (TRO) is your go-to platform for tennis-inspired travel. Plan your next destination with our curated lists of properties, reviewed directly by guests who have actually experienced the programming and properties themselves. Lead with tennis, plan out your location first, or combine the two – TRO has everything you need to lock in your next luxurious yet active getaway with your racquet in hand. Click here to begin viewing our property listings.
You Can’t Beat Baha Mar
Located in Nassau, Bahamas, Baha Mar is a one-of-a-kind resort experience. A weekend isn’t nearly long enough to enjoy the expansive offerings of this Caribbean property. From relaxation to nightlife to everything in between, guests have absolutely no need to leave the grounds. Three hotels line the property that’s filled with culinary brilliance, tropical poolside settings, and an amenity menu too long to list. Whether you’re traveling with family, getting away solo, or mingling with friends, Baha Mar has an offering for everyone in the group. Explore their full list of packages and offerings here.
About Baha Mar Cup and Cliff Drysdale Tennis Experiences
For five consecutive years, The Baha Mar Cup has been held by Cliff Drysdale Tennis as an iconic staple on their events calendar. Benefitting the Baha Mar Resort Foundation as well as the Mark Knowles Children’s Tennis Initiative, this annual event features chances to not only watch immaculate tennis in a stunning location, but also to compete on court and enjoy off-court moments with some of the game’s greatest stars. For more information on Cliff Drysdale Tennis and upcoming experiences, please visit this link.
