50 Facts About The Citi Open

History of the Citi Open

The Citi Open, held annually in Washington, D.C., is one of the most anticipated tennis tournaments in the United States. It has a rich history and has seen many memorable moments.

1. The Citi Open began in 1969, making it one of the oldest tennis tournaments in the U.S.
2. Originally called the Washington Star International, it was renamed the Citi Open in 2012.
3. The tournament is part of the ATP Tour 500 series and the WTA International tournaments.
4. The event was founded by Donald Dell, a former tennis player and sports agent.
5. The inaugural tournament was won by Thomaz Koch from Brazil.
6. The Citi Open is played at the William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center in Rock Creek Park.
7. The tournament has been held at the same venue since its inception.
8. Arthur Ashe, the first African American to win a Grand Slam, played in the inaugural event.
9. The Citi Open was one of the first tournaments to offer equal prize money to men and women.
10. In 1986, the tournament became part of the Grand Prix tennis circuit.

Memorable Matches and Players

Over the years, the Citi Open has hosted some of the most thrilling matches and legendary players in tennis history.

11. Andre Agassi holds the record for the most Citi Open titles, with five wins.
12. In 1992, Agassi defeated Petr Korda in a memorable five-set final.
13. Juan Martín del Potro won the tournament in 2008, 2009, and 2013.
14. In 2015, Kei Nishikori became the first Japanese player to win the Citi Open.
15. Venus Williams won the women's singles title in 2006.
16. In 2019, Nick Kyrgios won the men's singles title, showcasing his flamboyant playing style.
17. The 2018 women's final saw Svetlana Kuznetsova defeat Donna Vekić in a thrilling match.
18. Andy Roddick, a former world No. 1, won the tournament three times.
19. The 2017 men's final featured Alexander Zverev defeating Kevin Anderson.
20. In 2021, Rafael Nadal made his debut at the Citi Open, drawing huge crowds.

Unique Aspects of the Tournament

The Citi Open stands out for several unique aspects that make it a favorite among players and fans alike.

21. The tournament is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and activities.
22. It features a "Kids' Day" where young fans can interact with players.
23. The Citi Open is one of the few tournaments played on hard courts during the summer.
24. It is part of the U.S. Open Series, leading up to the U.S. Open Grand Slam.
25. The tournament has a strong focus on sustainability and environmental initiatives.
26. It offers a "Green Ticket" program, encouraging fans to use public transportation.
27. The Citi Open has a tradition of honoring military personnel with special events.
28. It features a "Taste of Tennis" event, where fans can enjoy gourmet food from top chefs.
29. The tournament has a dedicated "Fan Zone" with interactive games and activities.
30. It is known for its vibrant night sessions, with matches often extending into the evening.

Impact on the Community

The Citi Open has a significant impact on the local community, contributing to various charitable causes and initiatives.

31. The tournament supports the Washington Tennis & Education Foundation (WTEF).
32. WTEF provides tennis and educational programs for underserved youth in D.C.
33. The Citi Open has raised millions of dollars for WTEF since its inception.
34. It offers scholarships to young tennis players through WTEF.
35. The tournament hosts a "Pro-Am" event, where amateurs can play with professionals.
36. It has a "Community Day" with free admission for local residents.
37. The Citi Open partners with local schools to promote tennis and education.
38. It provides free tennis clinics for children during the tournament.
39. The event has a "Ball Kid" program, giving local kids a chance to be part of the action.
40. The tournament's charitable initiatives have positively impacted thousands of lives in the D.C. area.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Here are some fun facts and trivia about the Citi Open that might surprise you.

41. The tournament's trophy is a replica of the Washington Monument.
42. The Citi Open has a unique "Player Party" where players can relax and socialize.
43. It is one of the few tournaments where fans can watch practice sessions up close.
44. The event has a "Legends Day" featuring matches with retired tennis stars.
45. The Citi Open has a tradition of inviting local celebrities to participate in events.
46. It offers a "VIP Experience" with exclusive access to player areas and hospitality suites.
47. The tournament has a "Social Media Day" with special activities for online fans.
48. It features a "Fan Fest" with live music, food trucks, and entertainment.
49. The Citi Open has a "Player Lounge" with games, snacks, and relaxation areas for players.
50. The tournament's official mascot is a giant tennis ball named "Ace."

The Final Serve

The Citi Open isn't just another tennis tournament; it's a celebration of sport, community, and history. From its humble beginnings in 1969 to becoming a key stop on the ATP and WTA tours, the event has grown in prestige and popularity. Fans flock to Washington, D.C. every summer to witness top-tier tennis, enjoy local culture, and create lasting memories.

Whether you're a die-hard tennis enthusiast or a casual observer, the Citi Open offers something for everyone. The tournament's commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and charity work makes it stand out in the crowded sports landscape. So, next time you're in D.C. during the summer, grab a ticket and experience the magic firsthand. You'll be part of a tradition that blends athletic excellence with community spirit, making it a must-see event on the tennis calendar.