Before you read past this sentence, play this video to listen to a three-minute song about San Francisco that will serve as your soundtrack while you read this three-minute blog post about San Francisco.
Ok, now start reading.
San Francisco residents might feel the blues this weekend as the forecast calls for rain, but starting Sunday, the fog should clear enough for bay area locals to grab their rackets and head to the courts for some tennis in ideal 60° temperatures. Why should San Franciscans play tennis?
While the city might be known as the cultural and economic capital of Northern California, it should be known as the region’s tennis capital as well. San Francisco has produced some incredible tennis talent and still remains a great place to watch and play the game today. Here’s a look at the history and future of tennis in The City by the Bay.
History
Did you know the nation’s second-oldest ongoing tennis tournament (behind the U.S. Open) took place for many years in San Francisco? The Pacific Coast Championships was an annual men’s event that began in 1889 and was played in San Fran from 1931-1933, 1943-1948 and 1983-1993. The player that won the tournament during its last year in SF was Andre Agassi.
Players
Most tennis fans didn’t know who CiCi Bellis was until the 15-year-old upset a top seed at the U.S. Open this year. After her performance in the grand slam tournament, many Americans have high hopes for the top-ranked junior’s future. As for now, Bellis resides with her parents in San Francisco, where she enjoys listening to Taylor Swift just like any normal teenager.
Watching
Stanford University has built a tennis legacy over the last several decades, and if you live in the bay area, be sure to check out The Cardinal tennis teams in action this spring. The women’s team has racked up seven NCAA tournament titles since 2001 and their worst tournament finish in the last 14 years was losing in the Sweet 16 … so yeah, they’re pretty dominate. Those who follow college tennis will know Stanford for its highly acclaimed director of tennis, Dick Gould. Gould was the head men’s coach for 38 years before becoming director in 2005. During his time with The Cardinal men, Gould led his teams to 17 NCAA Championships and was the college coach of nine top-ranked ATP players. See more of his accomplishments here.
Playing
Located in the heart of the city, Mission Dolores Park is San Francisco’s playground, but its six tennis courts are currently under construction. That means tennis players need to find other convenient locations where they can hit, play matches or take lessons. Without a doubt, our top suggestion is George Sterling Memorial Park. Just read the Yelp reviews to see how great this facility is.
- “On a good day, you can see Alcatraz and the Golden Gate bridge while you practice your backhand.”
- “For tennis enthusiasts this spot cannot be beat. Court high above the bustle of the city. Views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Serve and score.”
- “This is probably one of the coolest places to play tennis on earth.”
Ready to pick up the racket in San Francisco? If you haven’t played before or want to brush up on your game, get started with lessons from a coach through MyTennisLessons today!
