10 reasons to watch the Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger tennis tournament

Challenger tournaments like the Paine Schwartz Partners event at Atkins Tennis Center are training grounds for future ATP stars. Spectators can learn valuable lessons on footwork, shot selection, and composure under pressure.

Champaign-Urbana tennis news for the Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger URBANA – Watching Challenger matches is like getting a free clinic on the foundational, battle-tested skills that form the bedrock of professional tennis — skills that can dramatically improve any recreational player’s game.

Sure, watching Grand Slam tennis is inspiring, but Challenger-level matches are hidden gems for picking up tips to strengthen your tennis toolbox. Players ranked inside the top 500 are incredibly skilled, fit, and dedicated to their craft. They’re grinding to make a living from the sport while doing everything they can to reach the ATP elite.

Each Challenger match is an inexpensive master class in the gritty, practical side of tennis — and class is in session this week at the Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger at Atkins Tennis Center.

Ignore the 120 mph serves, the squeak of shoes as players slide across the court, and the occasional errant shot rocketing toward your head. Here are 10 reasons a high school or competitive adult player should catch at least a couple of matches:

1. See Rising Stars Before They’re Famous

Challenger events are the proving ground for future ATP Tour champions. Ben Shelton, Kevin Anderson, Sam Querrey, Marcos Baghdatis, and Kei Nishikori all played Challenger matches at Atkins Tennis Center before breaking onto the big stage.

2. Watch Diverse Playing Styles

The Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger draws veterans, journeymen, and young prospects every year. This mix exposes fans to a wide range of tactics, strategies, and styles. You’ll see a full toolbox of shots used with purpose: heavy topspin to push opponents back, biting slice to change rhythm, well-disguised drop shots, and aggressive approaches. It’s a reminder that winning isn’t just about hitting the ball hard — it’s about disrupting your opponent’s timing and comfort zone.

3. Get a Closer Fan Experience

Small venues like Atkins mean courtside seats where you can hear player-coach conversations and maybe even meet the athletes afterward — something that rarely happens at Grand Slams unless you have serious connections.

4. Study Footwork

While Challenger players may not have the explosive speed of the top 10, their movement is still world-class. Watch how they use small adjustment steps to position for every shot, recover after every rally, and almost never get caught flat-footed — a common flaw among club players.

5. Enjoy Global Flavor

Challenger tournaments span five continents, showcasing international talent and diverse playing philosophies. This year’s field includes players from Japan, Germany, Great Britain, Turkey, and Spain.

6. Learn How to Play Big Points

At 30-30, break point, or in a tiebreak, Challenger players don’t go for miracle winners. They simplify their game, get that first serve in, and aim for high-percentage targets. They trust their fundamentals when it matters most — a lesson any player can apply.

7. Improve Your Doubles Game

Watch how doubles partners function as one. You’ll see nonstop communication through hand signals, words, and intuitive movement. Notice how they support each other and cover the court so efficiently. Doubles is all about strategy and anticipation — formations like the I-formation and Australian are used constantly to outthink opponents. It’s a live master class in teamwork and tactics.

8. Study the Serve

Power matters, but variety wins points. You’ll see players use slice and kick serves to open the court or jam the returner with body serves. This is even more important in doubles, where the goal is to set up a partner for an easy putaway volley or overhead. Watching how pros use serve placement and spin to build points is a lesson that will pay off for any player looking to level up.

9. Observe Net Play

This might be the best reason to watch pro doubles live. You’ll see perfectly angled drop volleys, lightning-quick reflex exchanges, and body volleys under pressure. Pay attention to how players move with the ball and close down space — it’s a clinic in anticipation and aggression. Nothing matches the thrill of a perfectly timed poach.

10. Affordable and Accessible

Admission to the Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger is just $10 a day — a bargain for a front-row seat to professional tennis and a master class that could help you win more points (and maybe more matches).

Here’s the schedule for Wednesday at the Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger, held at Atkins Tennis Center.

ORDER OF PLAY - WEDNESDAY, 12 NOVEMBER 2025

Starting at 10:00 a.m. on the Schwartz Court:

[5] Mats Rosenkranz (GER) vs [Alt] Adhithya Ganesan (USA)
[3] Mitchell Krueger (USA) vs Darwin Blanch (USA)

Not Before 15:00
[WC] Adam Jilly (HUN) vs Alex Martinez (ESP)

Aidan McHugh (GBR) or [Q] Jeremy Zhang (AUS) vs [4] Murphy Cassone (USA)

Not Before 18:00
After Rest - Kenta Miyoshi (JPN)/Oliver Okonkwo (GBR)
vs [WC] Sasha Colleu (FRA)/Adam Jilly (HUN)

Followed By
After Rest - [WC] Mathis Debru (FRA)/Jeremy Zhang (AUS)
vs [3] Alfredo Perez (USA)/Jamie Vance (USA)

Starting at 10:00 a.m. on the Goldenberg Court:

Lui Maxted (GBR)/Joe Tyler (GBR)
vs Ryan Seggerman (USA)/Keegan Smith (USA)

Anthony Genov (BUL)/Enzo Wallart (USA)
vs [2] Pranav Kumar (USA)/Noah Schachter (USA)

Cedrik-Marcel Stebe (GER) vs Jay Friend (JPN)

[4] Tom Hands (GBR)/Mats Rosenkranz (GER)
vs Arda Azkara (TUR)/James Hopper (GBR)

[1] Scott Duncan (GBR)/James Mackinlay (GBR)
vs Isaac Nortey (GHA)/Leonardo Vega (USA)

TAGS: Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger, Urbana tennis, Challenger Tour Illinois, Atkins Tennis Center, professional tennis education

Friend, Ganesan advance as top seeds prepare to hold court at Champaign tennis challenger

The Champaign Challenger opened with rising stars making strong statements. Japan’s Jay Friend overcame Alfredo Perez in a back-and-forth three-set battle, while American Adhithya Ganesan defeated Great Britain’s Oliver Okonkwo in straight sets.

CHAMPAIGN - The Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger opened its main draw Monday with a slate of competitive singles matches that set the tone for an event blending rising international talents with seasoned tour veterans.

In one of the day’s featured matches, 21-year-old Jay Friend of Japan battled past American Alfredo Perez in three sets, 6-4, 5-7, 6-3. Friend, who showcased a powerful and consistent first serve throughout the match, took control early by winning 86% of his first-serve points in the opening set. After a dip in accuracy during the second, the young right-hander regained command in the final frame, converting 83% of his first serves and maintaining steady composure from the baseline to secure the win. His next test comes against the winner of Tuesday’s match between top seed Nicolas Mejia of Colombia and Germany’s Cedrik-Marcel Stebe.

American Adhithya Ganesan also advanced with a confident straight-sets victory over Great Britain’s Oliver Okonkwo, 6-3, 7-5. Ganesan’s sharp return game and reliable service rhythm proved decisive, as he won 65% of his overall service points and captured 31 points on return. Okonkwo, a former University of Illinois standout, managed a solid 67% success rate on first serves but faltered on his second serve, winning just 9 of 25 points. His tournament, however, continues in doubles, where he’ll reunite with fellow Illini alumnus Kenta Miyoshi.

As the tournament continues on the indoor hard courts of the Atkins Tennis Center, Tuesday’s lineup brings the top two seeds into play. No. 1 Nicolas Mejia faces Stebe following the morning matches on the Schwartz Court, while No. 2 Johannus Monday of Great Britain meets American Micah Braswell at 10 a.m. on the Goldberg Court.

Monday's results and Tuesday tournament schedule are available below.

Results - Monday, 10 November 2025

Men's Singles - Round of 32

Jay Friend (JPN) def Alfredo Perez (USA) 6-4, 5-7, 6-3
[WC] Adam Jilly (HUN) def Keegan Smith (USA) 6-4, 6-2
[Alt] Adhithya Ganesan (USA) def [WC] Oliver Okonkwo (GBR) 6-3, 7-5
Alex Martinez (ESP) def [7] Saba Purtseladze (GEO) 7-5, 3-6, 7-6(7)
[4] Murphy Cassone (USA) def [JR] Hoyoung Roh (KOR) 6-0, 6-2

Men's Qualifying Singles - Qualifying Round 2 [7] Ryan Fishback (USA) def [3] Jacob Brumm (USA) 6-2, 3-0 Retired
[4] Shunsuke Mitsui (JPN) def [10] Ryan Seggerman (USA) 6-7(4), 6-3, 6-4
[WC] Jeremy Zhang (AUS) def [2] Quinn Vandecasteele (USA) 7-5, 6-4
[1] Lui Maxted (GBR) def [WC] Marcel Latak (USA) 7-5, 6-2
[Alt] Taym Al Azmeh (GER) def [9] Maik Steiner (GER) 7-5, 6-4
[6] Pablo Martinez Gomez (ESP) def Noah Zamora (USA) 4-6, 6-4, 7-6(7)

Order of play for November 11, 2025

Starting at 10:00 a.m. on the Schwartz Court:

[Q] Shunsuke Mitsui (JPN) vs [8] Tyler Zink (USA)
Stefan Kozlov (USA) vs Leo Borg (SWE)
[1] Nicolas Mejia (COL) vs Cedrik-Marcel Stebe (GER)

Not Before 4:00 p.m.
Kenta Miyoshi (JPN) vs [LL] Quinn Vandecasteele (USA)

Not Before 6:00 p.m.
Aidan McHugh (GBR) vs [Q] Jeremy Zhang (AUS)
[WC] Sasha Colleu (FRA) vs [Q] Taym Al Azmeh (GER)

Starting at 10:00 a.m. on the Goldenberg Court:

Micah Braswell (USA) vs [2] Johannus Monday (GBR)
[5] Mats Rosenkranz (GER) vs [Q] Pablo Martinez Gomez (ESP)
[Q] Lui Maxted (GBR) vs Arda Azkara (TUR)
[6] Andres Martin (USA) vs [Q] Ryan Fishback (USA)

Not Before 5:00 p.m.
Stefan Kozlov (USA) / Brandon Perez (VEN)
vs Patrick Harper (AUS) / Shunsuke Mitsui (JPN)

Erik Arutiunian / Saba Purtseladze (GEO)
vs Zachary Fuchs (USA) / Wally Thayne (USA)

TAGS: Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger results, Champaign tennis tournament 2025, Jay Friend ATP Challenger win, Adhithya Ganesan Champaign match recap, University of Illinois tennis news

Pro tennis action continues at Atkins Tennis Center today

Qualifying rounds at Champaign-Urbana pro tennis tournament continues today at Atkins Tennis Center. Players from around the globe look to make it into the main draw.

Champaign-Urbana tennis news for the Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger CHAMPAIGN - The qualifying round at the Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger continues today at the Atkins Tennis Center. The indoor hard-court tournament runs this week in Champaign-Urbana with a mix of emerging talents and seasoned tour veterans competing for valuable ATP ranking points.

Today's opening draw for the the Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger starts at 10 a.m.

General admission is $10 per person.

Hosted at the University of Illinois’ premier tennis facility, the Champaign Challenger continues to serve as a key late-season stop on the U.S. circuit, offering players a final chance to improve rankings before year’s end and giving local fans an up-close look at future stars of the sport. Follow the tournament online for the Paine Schwartz daily draw.

Monday, November 10 Schedule

Starting at 10 a.m. on the Schwartz Court:

[3] Jacob Brumm (USA) vs [7] Ryan Fishback (USA)
[4] Shunsuke Mitsui (JPN) vs Ozan Baris (USA) or [10] Ryan Seggerman (USA)
[2] Quinn Vandecasteele (USA) or [Alt] Alex Kobelt (USA)
vs [WC] Jeremy Zhang (AUS) or [11] Enzo Wallart (USA)

Not Before 3:00 p.m.
Alfredo Perez (USA) vs Jay Friend (JPN)

Not Before 6:00 p.m.
Keegan Smith (USA) vs [WC] Adam Jilly (HUN)
[WC] Oliver Okonkwo (GBR) vs [Alt] Adhithya Ganesan (USA)

Starting at 10 a.m. on the Goldenberg Court:

[1] Lui Maxted (GBR) vs [WC] Marcel Latak (USA) [5] Peter Bertran (DOM) or [Alt] Taym Al Azmeh (GER) vs [Alt] Tom Hands (GBR) or [9] Maik Steiner (GER) [6] Pablo Martinez Gomez (ESP) or [WC] Mathis Debru (FRA)
vs Noah Zamora (USA) or [12] Brandon Perez (VEN)

Not Before 3:00 p.m.
Alex Martinez (ESP) vs [7] Saba Purtseladze (GEO)

Not Before 5:00 p.m.
[JR] Hoyoung Roh (KOR) vs [4] Murphy Cassone (USA)

Tags: Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger Champaign 2025, ATP Challenger Tour Illinois tennis tournament, Atkins Tennis Center Champaign tennis matches, professional men’s indoor hard court tennis, University of Illinois ATP Challenger event, emerging ATP tennis players in Champaign

Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger serves up action starting today in Champaign

Champaign-Urbana's annual professional hard-court tennis tournament starts today at Atkins Tennis Center.

Champaign-Urbana tennis news CHAMPAIGN - The annual Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger is underway at the Atkins Tennis Center in Champaign, bringing professional men’s tennis back to central Illinois as part of the ATP Challenger Tour. The indoor hard-court tournament runs November 9–16 and features a mix of emerging talents and seasoned tour veterans competing for valuable ATP ranking points.

Today's opening draw for the the Paine Schwartz Partners Challenger starts at 10 a.m. Winners from these matches will advance to the main draw, which begins early this week and is expected to feature several ATP Top 200 players.

Among the challengers are University of Illinois players Jeremy Zhang and Mathis Debru, who take the court in today's qualifying singles round at Atkins Tennis Center. Both Fighting Illini players will start their run on the Schwartz Court.

General admission is $10 per person.

Sunday, November 9 Schedule

Starting at 10 a.m. on the Schwartz Court:
[3] Jacob BRUMM (USA) VS [Alt] Drew VAN ORDERLAIN (USA)

Starting at 10 a.m. on the Goldenberg Court:
Pranav KUMAR (USA) vs [7] Ryan FISHBACK (USA)

Followed by:
[WC] Marcel LATAK (USA) vs [8] Noah SCHACHTER (USA)
[1] Lui MAXTED (GBR) vs Preston BROWN (USA)
[WC] Jeremy ZHANG (AUS) vs [11] Enzo WALLART (USA)
[4] Shunsuke MITSUI (JPN) vs [WC] Benedict GRAFT (USA)
Ozan BARIS (USA) vs [10] Ryan SEGGERMAN (USA)
[Alt] Tom HANDS (GBR) vs [9] Maik STEINER (GER)
[5] Peter BERTRAN (DOM) vs [Alt] Taym AL AZMEH (GER)
[2] Quinn VANDECASTEELE vs [Alt] Alex KOBELT (USA)
[6] Pablo MARTINEZ GOMEZ (ESP) VS [WC] Mathis DEBRU (FRA)
Noah ZAMORA (USA) Vs [12] Brandon PEREZ (VEN)

Image of text that says 'THE [3] Jacob BRUMM (USA) VS [Alt] Drew VAN ORDERLAIN (USA) Pranav KUMAR (USA) [7] Ryan FISHBACK (USA) [WC] Marcel LATAK (USA) [8] Noah SCHACHTER (USA) Lui MAXTED (GBR) FollowedBy Preston BROWN (USA) [WC] Jeremy ZHANG (AUS) [11] Enzo WALLART (USA) Shunsuke MITSUI (JPN) Befare [WC] Benedict GRAFT (USA) Ozan BARIS (USA) 14:00 [10] Ryan SEGGERMAN (USA) [Alt] Tom HANDS (GBR) FollowedB [9] Maik STEINER (GER) [5] Peter BERTRAN (DOM) Folowed [Alt] Taym AL AZMEH (GER) Quinn VANDECASTEELE FallowedBy [Alt] (USA) [6] Pablo MARTINEZ GOMEZ (ESP) VS [WC] Mathis DEBRU (FRA) Noah ZAMORA (USA) Vs [12] Brandon PEREZ (VEN)'

From Champaign to Grand Slam Finals, Anderson honored with Hall of Fame induction

Illini legend Kevin Anderson becomes just the second in Illini tennis history to earn ITA Hall of Fame induction.

TEMPE, Ariz. - Kevin Anderson, who rose from a standout at Illinois to one of the world’s top tennis professionals, will be inducted into the Intercollegiate Tennis Association Men’s Hall of Fame in May 2026. The ITA announced the Class of 2026 in late July, honoring Anderson as part of a five-member group that includes John Isner, Steve Johnson, longtime Georgia coach Manny Diaz, and contributor John Frierson.

Anderson’s journey to the Hall of Fame spans from his days in Champaign to his rise as a two-time Grand Slam finalist and world No. 5. A native of South Africa, he played for Illinois from 2004 to 2007, helping elevate the Fighting Illini to national prominence. Anderson captured the 2006 NCAA doubles championship alongside Ryan Rowe, reached the NCAA singles semifinals and doubles final in 2007, and led Illinois to a team runner-up finish that same year.

His collegiate honors included three First-Team All-Big Ten selections, the 2007 Big Ten Tennis Athlete of the Year award, and recognition as the Fighting Illini Dike Eddleman Male Athlete of the Year in 2007.

Turning professional after his junior season, Anderson embarked on a career that spanned 16 years. He became the first Illinois alum to reach a Grand Slam singles final, finishing runner-up to Rafael Nadal at the 2017 U.S. Open. The following summer, he returned to the sport’s biggest stage at Wimbledon, reaching the 2018 final after a marathon six-hour, 36-minute semifinal victory over Isner — still the longest Grand Slam semifinal in history. He later fell to Novak Djokovic in the championship match.

At his peak in 2018, Anderson climbed to No. 5 in the world rankings, collecting seven singles titles and one doubles title before retiring from the professional tour in 2022. His final ATP crown came at Newport in 2021, a fitting close to a career defined by resilience and power.

Anderson now joins coach Craig Tiley, inducted in 2010, as the only representatives of Illinois men’s tennis in the ITA Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony is scheduled for May 2026 at the University of Georgia, held in conjunction with the NCAA Division I Team Championships.

Since its founding in 1983, the ITA Men’s Hall of Fame has honored more than 270 players, coaches, and contributors. Eligibility requires both collegiate excellence and accomplishments beyond college, criteria Anderson met at every stage of his career.

For Illinois, his induction serves as both recognition of Anderson’s legacy and a reminder of the program’s impact on the broader tennis world.

Kevin Anderson ITA Hall of Fame induction 2026, Former Illini tennis star Kevin Anderson career highlights, Kevin Anderson NCAA champion and Grand Slam finalist, Illinois Fighting Illini tennis players in Hall of Fame, Kevin Anderson retirement and professional tennis legacy

Top seven cities in the Midwest to move if you love to play tennis

Tennis is not just a sport; it’s a lifestyle that can improve both your physical and mental well-being. If you're moving to another state and love tennis, these top seven cities in the Midwest provide everything you need to enjoy the sport.

SNS - If you are a tennis enthusiast relocating to the Midwest, consider yourself fortunate. The Midwest consists of several of the country's most tennis-aware cities. Whether you are a newcomer to the sport or an experienced veteran, these top seven cities in the Midwest have excellent tennis facilities, dynamic tennis communities, and many avenues to improve your game.

Tennis is not just a sport; it’s a lifestyle that can improve both your physical and mental well-being. Regular play helps enhance cardiovascular health, build muscle strength, and improve flexibility. Beyond the physical benefits, tennis fosters social connections, offering a chance to meet new people and form lasting friendships. Whether you're hitting the courts alone or joining a community league, tennis is a great way to stay active and engaged.

If you want to win more tennis matches, focusing on outdoor play is a great way to improve your game. Outdoor courts, with their unique conditions, can help you develop better footwork, adjust to different playing surfaces, and build mental toughness, all of which contribute to more victories on the court.

Most people may think of cities in New York, Florida or California when they think of tennis hotspots. Still, there are thriving tennis communities with top-notch courts and competitive opportunities in the Midwest. While indoor facilities guarantee year-round playability, the local climate provides ideal conditions for outdoor tennis, particularly during the summer.

Minneapolis, Minnesota:
A Tennis City with Active Communities

Minneapolis has a great mix of indoor and outdoor tennis options. There are many parks in the city, and many of them have tennis courts so you can play tennis with your kid or have an active day with friends. With numerous local clubs providing lessons, leagues, and events, Minneapolis boasts a robust tennis community as well.

Despite the city's frigid winters, there are plenty of indoor tennis courts, such as the Baseline Tennis Center, which make it simple to play all year round. Local tennis players can easily find opportunities to connect, whether through casual games or more competitive leagues. Thanks to the vibrant tennis culture here, both recreational and competitive tennis players have many chances to get better and compete.

Chicago, Illinois:
A Tennis Lover’s Dream

Chicago boasts some of the finest tennis clubs in the Midwest, catering to recreational players and serious competitors alike. Leading the pack is Midtown Athletic Club, a luxury facility in the West Loop featuring indoor and outdoor courts, elite coaching, and USTA-sanctioned tournaments. Nearby, XS Tennis Village stands out with its 26-court complex in Washington Park, hosting major events like the Chicago Open while fostering youth development through its nonprofit arm.

The historic Chicago Tennis Club, one of the oldest in the city, offers a more intimate setting with red clay courts and a strong community vibe. For those seeking upscale amenities, East Bank Club in River North provides top-tier instruction and well-maintained courts alongside fitness and dining options. Meanwhile, McFetridge Sports Center serves as an affordable, year-round public option with reliable indoor play — making it a favorite among local leaguers.

For players looking for outdoor options, the Chicago Park District maintains more than 500 public tennis courts across the city, many free to use and set in scenic parks and neighborhoods. Popular sites like Lincoln Park, Grant Park and Jackson Park offer well-maintained courts that stay busy from spring through fall. The park district also offers lessons, leagues, and tournaments for all ages and skill levels, helping grow Chicago’s tennis community from the ground up.

Do you have an up and coming youth player in your family? When it comes to high school tennis, few programs match the sustained success of New Trier High School, whose boys and girls teams have claimed numerous state titles thanks to deep talent pools and elite coaching. Hinsdale Central is another perennial contender, particularly in boys tennis, with a reputation for producing nationally ranked juniors. Rounding out the top three is Stevenson High School, a consistent force in both singles and doubles, known for its disciplined players and strategic prowess. These programs not only dominate the state championships but also feed collegiate rosters, cementing Chicago’s reputation as a hotbed for junior tennis talent in the Midwest.

Indianapolis, Indiana:
A Hidden Tennis Gem

Tennis is just one of the many sports that are popular in Indianapolis. There are several tennis facilities in the city, such as the Indianapolis Tennis Center, which holds events and tournaments. Tennis courts can be found in many local public parks, and some clubs offer memberships for access to the best facilities. Tennis enthusiasts from all skill levels congregate in Indianapolis. The city is also well known for having a low cost of living, which makes it an attractive choice for people who want to relocate to a new state without going over budget.

St. Louis, Missouri:
A Thriving Tennis Hub

With a variety of tennis facilities and activities, St. Louis is an excellent city for tennis players. To foster a friendly atmosphere for tennis enthusiasts, the St. Louis Community Tennis Association offers programs that assist both novice and expert players.

To guarantee year-round play, St. Louis also has indoor tennis clubs and several excellent public tennis courts maintained by the city's parks department. With numerous tennis clubs and frequent tennis tournaments, the city offers a wide range of social and competitive opportunities. If you are planning on moving to another state, St. Louis should be at the top of your list.

Cleveland, Ohio:
Where Tennis Meets Urban Living

Cleveland is another Midwestern city with a surprising love for tennis. With more than 200 tennis courts spread across the city, tennis players can find a court to match their needs. Cleveland also offers numerous tennis leagues, tournaments, and social events to engage with the local community.

The city’s tennis culture is welcoming to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. Whether you're looking for a casual game or want to compete, Cleveland is the place to be. The city is also undergoing significant revitalization, making it an even more attractive place to live for those looking to relocate and pursue their tennis passion.

Madison, Wisconsin:
A Smaller City with Big Tennis Appeal

Madison may be smaller than some of the other cities on this list, but it offers a fantastic tennis scene. The city has numerous public tennis courts, as well as private clubs that offer lessons and leagues. During the colder months, there are 32 indoor courts available for those who need their weekly tennis fix.

Madison’s tennis community is active and friendly, and the city frequently hosts local tournaments. With beautiful parks and outdoor courts, the city is perfect for tennis enthusiasts who love to play outdoors. Madison's smaller size makes it a great place to settle down, with a more relaxed pace of life compared to bigger cities. Its tennis culture makes it an ideal place for newcomers looking to find a welcoming and engaging tennis community.

Champaign-Urbana, IL:
#7 - The Hidden Gem

If you're looking for a fresh start and a place to improve your tennis game, these cities should be at the top of your list. However, just two and a half hours south of Chicago, three hours north of St. Louis, and an hour and a half west of Indianopolis sits the twin cities of Champaign-Urbana, home of the University of Illinois.

The C-U area boasts two six-court indoor tennis facilities with affordable fees and year-round programs, all set within a vibrant campus community of 130,000. What makes the twin cities an ideal place to relocate is the abundance of outdoor courts: within a ten-mile radius of campus, there are more than a hundred courts open to the public at no charge, including over 40 with lights that stay on until 11 p.m., making evening play easy and accessible. As home to the Big Ten’s Fighting Illini, the area also offers no shortage of opportunities to watch high-level college and professional tennis year-round.

Like Madison, the Champaign-Urbana tennis community is active with the ability to play seven days a week with seven or more different organized groups at one of the dozens of outdoor, well-kept parks.

Finding Your Tennis Home in the Midwest

If you're moving to another state and love tennis, these top seven cities in the Midwest provide everything you need to enjoy the sport. From world-class tennis facilities to active communities and regular events, these cities offer both casual and competitive players a place to thrive. Whether you prefer outdoor tennis during the warmer months or indoor play when it's cold, the Midwest provides year-round opportunities for tennis lovers.

Feel the Rush!

Illinois tennis team to host three-day Fighting Illini Invite

URBANA - There is a big weekend of college tennis on tap at Atkins Tennis Center. The Illinois men’s tennis team will host Columbia and Boise State in the Fighting Illini Invite this Friday through Sunday. The three days of jam-packed tennis competition will feature singles and doubles play, along with hidden duals.

Lucas Horve and Illinois tennis fans cheer on the Fighting Illini at last March's home match against Ohio State. Tennis fans can get an early look at the Illini and several top collegiate tennis players in the nation at Atkins Tennis Center in their first home meet of the season.

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

The action gets underway on Friday at 10 a.m. with four doubles pairs from each school competing for first place in a doubles tournament. The invitational meet concludes on Sunday afternoon with a hidden dual featuring Boise State against players from both Columbia and Illinois.

The Illini host Boise State and Columbia after opening their spring schedule with a trip to Arizona for the Sun Devil Preseason Invite. Along with playing singles and doubles matches against Arizona State and Texas A&M, the Orange and Blue participated in training sessions and team-bonding activities during their time in the Grand Canyon State.

Columbia, ranked No. 8 in the first ITA team rankings of 2025, will make its first visit to the University of Illinois campus. Reloading this season, the Lions are coming off an Elite Eight appearance at the NCAA Team Tournament and finished last season 23-4.

Junior Michael Zheng, the top-ranked Division I player in the country, won the NCAA Singles Championship in November after finishing as runner-up one year earlier.

Boise State, which finished 2024 with a 20-11 record, earned a share of the Mountain West regular-season title before winning its conference tournament in dominant fashion. The Broncos were beaten by No. 11 Arizona in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Jett Middleton, ranked No. 111, is Boise State’s top player to watch.

The Illini will be led by two ITA-ranked players: No. 14 Kenta Miyoshi and No. 30 William Mroz. Three other top-100 singles players fill the ranks of Illinois’ opponents, including Zheng at No. 1, with teammates Hugo Hashimoto (No. 33) and Nicolas Kotzen (No. 42).

FIGHTING ILLINI INVITE SCHEDULE

(TIMES SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

Friday, January 17
10 a.m. CT ~
Doubles tournament (four doubles teams per school, sets to six)

2 p.m. CT ~
Singles matches: Columbia, Boise State, Illinois

5 p.m. CT ~
Illinois hidden dual: Illinois vs. 1/2 Columbia & 1/2 Boise
Extra singles matches to follow

Saturday, January 18
12 p.m. CT ~
Columbia hidden dual: Columbia vs. 1/2 Boise & 1/2 Illinois

3 p.m. CT ~
Singles matches: Columbia, Boise State, Illinois

5 p.m. CT ~
Extra singles matches to follow

Sunday, January 19
10 a.m. CT
Boise State hidden dual: Boise State vs. 1/2 Columbia & 1/2 Illinois

1 p.m. CT ~
Extra singles matches to follow

Feel the Rush!

Mroz advances at ITA All-American Championships

TULSA, OK. – Illinois tennis player William Mroz advanced to the singles qualifiers at the ITA All-American Championships on Sunday in Tulsa. Mroz won three singles matches in pre-qualifying action to earn a spot among 64 student-athletes in the qualifying round today.

Mroz won in straight sets over Auburn's William Nolan, 6-4, 6-2, in his first match in the quallies. Next, he faced Georgia Tech's Nate Bonetto on Sunday morning, cruising to a 6-2, 6-1 win. The redshirt junior played a second match on Sunday afternoon, finishing with another dominant performance, knocking Duke's Oscar Brown 6-1, 6-4,

Sixty-four student-athletes will compete in the singles qualifying bracket, with 16 players advancing to the singles main draw on Wednesday.

Illini's Miyoshi wins back-to-back titles at ITA Nationals

SNS Sports – Illinois' Kenta Miyoshi successfully defended his title at the ITA National Summer Championships, winning the men’s singles tournament for the second consecutive year. Having strong summer season, he secured his spot in the ITA National Summer Championships after he won an ITA Summer Masters Series event in Madison, Wis., in July.

Surviving his semifinal match against No. 3 seed Lucas Brown from Texas 6-3, 6-7, 10-2, the Japanese native punched his ticket to the title match for a rematch against Florida State’s Jamie Connel.

Kenta Miyoshi tosses the ball for a serve at the 2023 Illini Open. The Fighting Illini junior won his second straight ITA National Summer Championship title on Tuesday.

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

In 2023, summoning every ounce of tenacity he could muster, Miyoshi won their earlier meeting 2-6, 6-4, 10-7. On Tuesday, took command early and delivered a 6-3, 6-3, decision over Connel on Tuesday at the Leftwich Tennis Center on the campus of the University of Memphis.

During his sophomore season, all eyes will be on the Big Ten Distinguished Scholar who ended with a 27-9 record in singles and 18-10 record in doubles. Miyoshi finished his sophomore year undefeated in singles during Big Ten play with a 6-0 record and ended the 2023-24 season with a 10-match undefeated streak in doubles.

Illini advance, first-round results from the Neitzel Family Open

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Former University of Illinois player Alexander Petrov lines up a down-the-line shot during his match against Zeke Clark. In the sweltering late afternoon heat on Wednesday, Petrov, who had lost two previous matches to Clark, won the day at the International Tennis Federation-sanctioned tournament held at Atkins Tennis Center.

URBANA - One former and two current University of Illinois tennis players were on their home court at Atkins Tennis Center on Tuesday. The trio, each having to battle three-set matches, advanced to Wednesday's second-round competition at the Neitzel Family Open.

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Karlis Ozolins stays in the point against Andre Ilagan as an afternoon storm rolls in toward Atkins Tennis Center. After a two-hour rain delay Ozolins fell 6-3, 7-5.

In an alumni match, Alexander Petrov took down Illinois assistant tennis coach Zeke Clark in a grueling three-setter, 5-7, 6-2, 6-0. Despite the loss, Clark still owns the series between the two former Big Ten players at the pro level, 2-1.

William Mroz, who enters his senior year at Illinois, defeated Canadian Dan Martin in a marathon match 6(2)-7, 6-2, 6-1.

Later, Kenta Miyoshi dropped his first set 6-3 and then took the next two, 7-6(5), 6-4.

The third installment of the Neitzel Family Open has a total purse of $25,000. The week-long, ITF-sanctioned event has attracted young players from all over the world.

Below are the complete results from the tournament's first round.

Main Draw Results ~
Tyler Zink def Rodrigo Pacheco Mendez 6(5)-7, 6-4, 6-2
Kenta Miyoshi def James Tracy 3-6, 7-6(5), 6-4
Connor Bruce def Nathan Powwith 6-3, 6-4
Harrison Adams def Cleeve Harper 6-3, 6-1
Andre Ilagan def Karlis Ozolins 6-3, 7-5
William Mroz def Dan Martin 6(2)-7, 6-2, 6-1
Aidan Kim def Axel Nefve 7-6(5), 6-2
Gavin Young def Enzo Wallart 6-4, 6-3
William Grant def Ryuki Matsuda 2-6, 7-5, 6-4
Noah Schachter def Lucas Horve 6-3, 7-6(5)
Adhithya Ganesan def Alexander Bernard 6-3, 6-4
Cannon Kingsley def Gabrielius Guzauskas 6-2, 6-3
Duarte Vale def Kody Pearson 6-2, 6-1
Colton Smith def Kyle Kang 6-4, 6-4
Alexander Petrov dev Ezekiel Clark 5-7, 6-2, 6-0
Aidan McHugh def Emilio Gomez 6-4, 6(3)-7, 6-3

1. See Rising Stars Before They’re Famous

2. Watch Diverse Playing Styles

3. Get a Closer Fan Experience

4. Study Footwork

5. Enjoy Global Flavor

6. Learn How to Play Big Points

7. Improve Your Doubles Game

8. Study the Serve

9. Observe Net Play

10. Affordable and Accessible

ORDER OF PLAY - WEDNESDAY, 12 NOVEMBER 2025

More Local Tennis Articles

Results - Monday, 10 November 2025

Order of play for November 11, 2025

More Local Tennis Articles

Monday, November 10 Schedule

More Local Tennis Articles

Sunday, November 9 Schedule

More Local Tennis Articles

Minneapolis, Minnesota:A Tennis City with Active Communities

Chicago, Illinois:A Tennis Lover’s Dream

Indianapolis, Indiana:A Hidden Tennis Gem

St. Louis, Missouri:A Thriving Tennis Hub

Cleveland, Ohio:Where Tennis Meets Urban Living

Madison, Wisconsin:A Smaller City with Big Tennis Appeal

Champaign-Urbana, IL:#7 - The Hidden Gem

Finding Your Tennis Home in the Midwest

Editor's Choice

More Sentinel Stories

Prep Sports

Sentinel stories published on this day

Photo Galleries

Varsity Snapshot

Search the Sentinel

Top stories this year

Minneapolis, Minnesota:
A Tennis City with Active Communities

Chicago, Illinois:
A Tennis Lover’s Dream

Indianapolis, Indiana:
A Hidden Tennis Gem

St. Louis, Missouri:
A Thriving Tennis Hub

Cleveland, Ohio:
Where Tennis Meets Urban Living

Madison, Wisconsin:
A Smaller City with Big Tennis Appeal

Champaign-Urbana, IL:
#7 - The Hidden Gem