Back then, I at least had my sister by my side.
When I stepped into my ocean-view room on the seventh floor, any residual unease melted into giddy joy.
The decor was an ode to the island, from the cane-and-hemp chairs to the cloudlike bedding.
I wasnt just on a tennis trip, I realized.
I was on ahoneymoonwith myself.
I also met Victoria, Jessica, and Andy a group of slightly more advanced players.
How was I supposed to enjoy future dishes after sampling something so perfect?
Pro-am tournaments pair professionals with amateurs for a series of short doubles games.
He offered a genius tip for my backhand, delivered with all the kindness of a svelte Santa Claus.
I first picked up a tennis racket four years ago, and became fully addicted during the pandemic.
At the Baha Mar tournament, I decided I would try and mask my terror with bluster.
She generously smiled instead of rolling her eyes.
Afterward, at the exhibition match, the pros played and taunted one another, to the crowds delight.
Theres no way you could see if that ball was in.
And when Pegula and Blake faced a young Bahamian team, the crowd cheered loudly for the next generation.
(The latter gave new meaning to Billie Jean Kings famous adage, Pressure is a privilege.)
Ah, well: theres always next year.
Ive missed you, Alejandro said when I called him in Miami.
I cant wait to have you home.
I missed you, too, I said.
But as we hung up, I sensed that something had shifted.
You know, player to player.
Held each December, the Baha Mar Cup raises funds for a local childrens tennis charity.
The Rosewood Baha Mar Lagoon pool—perfect for cooling off after a match.Credit:Courtesy of Rosewood Baha Mar
From left: James Blake serving at the Baha Mar Cup; the author (left) with top-ranked U.S. player Jessica Pegula.Courtesy of Brittani Sonnenberg
Guests can book clinics and lessons at Baha Mar’s racquet club.Courtesy of Baha Mar
