In a heartwarming display of global solidarity, the city of McKinney, Texas, has stepped up to host top women's tennis players from Ukraine during the Billie Jean King Cup by Gainbridge playoff event on November 16-17. This international event not only reflects McKinney's dedication to fostering sports tourism but also serves as a beacon of hope for Ukrainian athletes facing the challenges of war.

A Warm Welcome for Ukraine's Tennis Trailblazers

A Surrogate Home Court for Ukraine's Tennis Stars

The Courts of McKinney will serve as a home court for Ukraine's top women's tennis players during the Billie Jean King Cup by Gainbridge playoff event. This decision, announced in a news release from the city of McKinney, underscores the community's commitment to supporting its global neighbors in times of adversity. Mayor George Fuller expressed the city's pride in stepping in as a "surrogate host" for the Ukrainian team, acknowledging the difficulties they face in playing on their home courts due to the ongoing war.

A Showcase of International Tennis Talent

The Billie Jean King Cup by Gainbridge playoff event in McKinney will feature a best-of-five match series, including two singles matches on November 16 and two reverse singles matches, as well as a doubles match on November 17. The event will showcase the skills of top women's tennis players from Ukraine and Austria, providing a platform for these athletes to showcase their talents on the global stage.

A Boost for Sports Tourism and the Local Economy

The selection of McKinney as the host city for this international event reflects the city's dedication to fostering sports tourism and enhancing its profile as a premier destination for world-class events. Visit McKinney Director Aaron Werner expressed the city's pride in welcoming athletes and fans from around the globe, who will not only experience the exceptional facilities and hospitality but also contribute to the local economy through their stays in hotels, dining in restaurants, and shopping in stores.

A Charitable Partnership for Youth Tennis Development

The event is being held in partnership with the Bush Tennis Center, with proceeds benefiting the organization's outreach efforts to support youth tennis involvement. The Svitolina Foundation, a charitable organization that works to support young tennis players in Ukraine and manages the Ukrainian women's national team in the Billie Jean King Cup, played a key role in selecting McKinney as the host city.

A Gesture of Solidarity and Support

The decision to host the Billie Jean King Cup by Gainbridge playoff event in McKinney is a powerful gesture of solidarity and support for the Ukrainian tennis community. Anna Popovchenko, the CEO of the Svitolina Foundation and a board member of the Ukrainian Tennis Federation, expressed the organization's deep gratitude for the "unwavering support" from the City of McKinney, Visit McKinney, and the Bush Tennis Center during these challenging times for Ukraine.

Opportunities for Fans and Supporters

Tickets and VIP packages are available for purchase for both days of the event, ranging from $35 to $95 per ticket. Ticket sales will support the Svitolina Foundation as well as the Bush-Wikse ACE Outreach Program, which both work to provide access to tennis programs and equipment for youth. This event offers sports enthusiasts and supporters the chance to witness world-class tennis while contributing to a worthy cause.