Citi Taste of Tennis: A Culinary Extravaganza for Tennis Stars and Chefs
On Thursday evening, the heart of New York City pulsated with excitement as Citi Taste of Tennis made its grand return. This star-studded event, held on the eve of the US Open draw, brought together tennis legends, rising stars, and culinary maestros for an unforgettable evening of gastronomic delights and tennis camaraderie.
Gotham Hall transformed into a culinary wonderland, where chef tables overflowed with tantalizing creations inspired by the world of tennis. Rum cocktails flowed freely, while tennis ball tiramisus teased the taste buds. Amidst the culinary feast, tennis players past and present mingled, savoring the flavors and sharing their love for the game.
J.J. Wolf, Mackenzie McDonald, Alycia Parks, and Taylor Fritz were among the American players who graced the event. Fritz even showcased his culinary skills in a cook-off against Olympic gold medalist Zheng Qinwen, hosted by none other than tennis icon Andre Agassi.
Agassi, a renowned tennis and pickleball expert, expressed his hopes for American success at the upcoming US Open. “I’m rooting for an American to breakthrough in their backyard,” he said. “We’ve got five in the Top 20. Their athleticism, power, and composure give me reason to believe they can make something special happen.”
Other notable attendees included Jelena Ostapenko and Arthur Fils, who shared their recipes for success: hard work, dedication, and a love for the game.
For the chefs in attendance, the US Open and the concept of tennis inspired a culinary symphony. Chef Jack Logue likened tennis to a “big ribeye steak, no sides, protein only,” while Chef Carmella Charrington described it as “everything—savory, sweet, spicy, salty, all the palettes.”
Citi Taste of Tennis proved to be more than just a culinary extravaganza. It was a celebration of the sport, a showcase of culinary artistry, and a reminder that tennis, like food, can tantalize all the senses.
