‘One Of The Best Events Out There’: Citi Taste Of Tennis DC A Smash Hit

The 2023 Mubadala Citi DC Open is off to a quick start before a ball has been struck in the main draw.

Players from the ATP and WTA were thrilled Sunday evening to attend the Citi Taste of Tennis DC, the tournament’s official player party. Among the stars in attendance were Gael Monfils, Elina Svitolina, Felix Auger-Aliassime and Jessica Pegula.

Monfils, the 2016 Washington champion, explained earlier in the day how much he enjoys competing in the United States’ capital.

“I love it all the time when I come here. The city is beautiful,” Monfils told ATP Media. “I really like being around in the city, the energy is great, and definitely the crowd support here is different. I have actually one of the biggest memories in my career, so it’s always nice and great to come back.”

The headlining chef for the event was Kevin Tien, and players were able to sample food made by some of the best chefs in Washington. It was an opportunity for the players to mingle with each other while also getting to know the local stars and how they have found their own success, according to John-Patrick Smith.

“I think the Taste of Tennis has to be one of the best organised events not only for tennis players to get away from the sport, but also to enjoy the local cuisine,” Smith said. “And also to meet some of the great and talented chefs and people in the food industry who’ve put so much time and effort just like tennis players have into creating their own brand, their own food, their own kind of line of creativity.

“I think it’s got to be one of the best events out there that the players really enjoy.”