It was another EXCITING year for me to be covering the Credit One Charleston Open!!!
Since 1973, the Charleston Open has been a pioneer in women’s professional sports, creating milestones that over the years have directly influenced the popularity of women’s professional tennis. Much has changed over the years. But to this day, the tournament remains the largest women’s only tennis tournament in North America. This year’s roster included 5 of the Top 10 women on tour, 5 past champions, and 5 Grand Slam champions. Previous winners include notable names like Chris Evert, Steffi Graf, Martina Navratilova, Serena Williams, Tracy Austin, Martina Hingis, Jennifer Capriati, Nadia Petrova, Madison Keys…and so many more!
Although it started out cold and overcast, the rain had passed in time for our Sunday Finals. As the competition heated up on center court, so did the weather. By the time the dust from the iconic green clay had settled, the sun was back out, and the Credit One Charleston Open had a NEW CHAMPION!!! After 9 looong days of non-stop mayhem, constantly shooting and editing for 10-15 hours per day, another tournament was in the books. But before we could wrap things up and go home, I had the pleasure of photographing a private shoot with our new victor, Ons Jabeur. It was a particularly special moment for me since Ons is the most successful professional tennis player to come out of Africa. She was born in Tunisia. I was born in Zaire. So we share that common bond of having African dust on our feet and African roots in our hearts.
CONGRATULATIONS to Ons as she continues to break barriers and win fans with her genuine smile and gentle spirit!!!
