Former tennis proAndy Roddickplayed his final professional match at theU.S. Open in 2012,so whenSerena Williamsannounced she’d end her careerthe same way,he knew he could relate.
“It was one of the most fun weeks that I ever had in my career,” Roddick said while announcing his ‘Guest How Andy Roddick Guests’ suite partnership at theKimpton Hotel Eventito celebrate the U.S. Open. “I was able to make the second week and actually had a decent run, and it was all of the innocence with tennis back [then] without the pressure of tomorrow because it really didn’t matter at that point. So it’ll be different for Serena.”
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“Believe me, I never wanted to have to choose between tennis and a family,” the six-time U.S. Open champion shares. “I don’t think it’s fair. If I were a guy, I wouldn’t be writing this because I’d be out there playing and winning while my wife was doing the physical labor of expanding our family. Maybe I’d be more of aTom Bradyif I had that opportunity.”
The sport has picked up much more celebrity momentum since the 39-year-old Roddick hung up his racket, so he appreciates the way in which Serena decided to call it a career.
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The father of two is excited to see several of the up-and-coming players, but knows everyone will be waiting for the moment Serena hits her last professional ball.
“There’s obviously going to be so many eyeballs,” Roddick explains. “I can’t even imagine who’s going to come be in that stadium, not knowing if it’s — Every match could be her last.”
As the former No. 1 tennis player prepares to watch Serena’s final match, he’s letting his fans experience it in a special way too with his specially curated hotel suite near Arthur Ashe Stadium.
With everything from a gigantic tennis ball bed to decked-out wooden furniture crafted from racquet material and eye-catching tennis ball-lined walls and décor, it’s the perfect way for any fan to enjoy the game.
“It’s a fun opportunity,” Roddick says of the one-of-a-kind package which also includes court-side level tickets to the match. “It was a different take on how to go about that partnership with U.S. Open, and I’m thankful to have been included.”
Bidding is available starting Wednesday, Aug. 24 at 9 a.m. ET and will close on Sunday, Aug. 28 at 5 p.m. ET. Visitauctions.ihg.comfor more information.
source: people.com
