Introducing A Night with Legends presented by BNP Paribas

Have you ever wanted to ask a Grand Slam champion how they perfected the slice backhand? Dreamed of chatting with one of the tennis greats you’ve long admired? Now’s your chance!

As we all adapt to social distancing, the International Tennis Hall of Fame’s annual Legends Ball presented by BNP Paribas, which is traditionally hosted in New York during the US Open has been cancelled.

In its place, the Hall of Fame is introducing A Night with Legends presented by BNP Paribas, an exclusive opportunity for a host to gather 10 of their friends and family or colleagues and clients for a virtual private cocktail party featuring a very special guest of honor.

Guests will be joined by a Hall of Fame tennis legend for tennis talk, cocktails, and fun. ITHF staff will work with the host to develop a custom program ideal for the group – which Hall of Famer will attend, what content to discuss or interactive elements to include, recommendations on custom cocktails or party favors, and any other detail necessary to ensure that the Night with Legends will be an unforgettable one.

Funds generated through A Night with Legends presented by BNP Paribas will replace funds lost from the cancelled Legends Ball and have a direct impact on the Hall of Fame’s ability to move forward with programs and services to preserve tennis history, celebrate its champions, and inspire the future.

“As a nearly 50-year sponsor of the sport of tennis, BNP Paribas continues to grow in our commitment to the sport because tennis so closely reflects our core values. It is a sport that is global, diverse, values fair play, and provides players of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities an opportunity to succeed,” stated Jean-Yves Fillion, CEO, BNP Paribas USA. “We know that the Hall of Famers have so much to offer in terms of teaching and inspiring us all, and therefore we are delighted to support the International Tennis Hall of Fame by presenting A Night with Legends.”

"As a nearly 50-year sponsor of the sport of tennis, BNP Paribas continues to grow in our commitment to the sport because tennis so closely reflects our core values. It is a sport that is global, diverse, values fair play, and provides players of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities an opportunity to succeed.”

Jean-Yves Fillion
CEO, BNP Paribas USA

A Night with Legends events will be scheduled on a mutually agreed upon date and time for the host and the Hall of Famer. Each event will be open to up to 10 guests. International Tennis Hall of Fame CEO Todd Martin will facilitate a Q & A and discussion.

ITHF CEO Todd Martin commented, “A unique highlight of the Legends Ball is always the opportunity for tennis supporters to mix and mingle with the Hall of Famers they admire. While we will greatly miss celebrating that most special night in New York, we are grateful to BNP Paribas and to the many Hall of Famers who have offered to create a way for supporters to stay connected to our sport and the Hall of Fame in light of not being able to gather in one place. A Night with Legends will be a unique experience for guests and will have a significant impact on the Hall of Fame’s future ability to serve the sport we all love.”