What’s one thing that all professional tennis players have in common? Copious amounts of travel. With players traveling the world nearly year-round to compete, the PTPA partnered with Hilton to provide incremental support to players as they seek to make their travels more comfortable and convenient.
Earlier this year, the PTPA introduced Hilton as its Official Hotel & Lodging Partner, extending exclusive benefits to hundreds of men’s and women’s players worldwide. Through the partnership, players can receive complimentary upgrades to Hilton Honors Diamond Status, Hilton’s highest tier of status, which provides special perks like space-available room upgrades, bonus points on all stays, complimentary breakfast, and much more. In addition, players can receive a player-exclusive discount when booking stays at Hilton properties around the world by using the PTPA’s player-exclusive booking portal.
As part of the partnership, Hilton also teamed up with four players for its “My 9 Things” video series, which features prominent figures and frequent travelers sharing their travel necessities. Caroline Garcia, Cameron Norrie, Tommy Paul, and Sloane Stephens joined the series to offer a behind-the-scenes look at how they prepare, unwind, and spend their time while living on the road. Keep reading to watch the full episodes and to learn more about each player’s travel style.
Caroline Garcia
With the uncertainty of the professional tennis schedule, Caroline Garcia noted how it’s important to find comfort and consistency in hotels. Luckily, she’s found that at the Hilton properties she’s visited around the world, including the Alexandra Barcelona Hotel, Curio Collection By Hilton, where she shared her top travel must-haves.
No matter where the 2022 WTA Finals champion travels, she always makes sure to pack her sleep mask so she’s properly rested. An avid reader, she also always keeps a book on hand for down-time entertainment, whether she’s waiting for her match to start or enjoying some peace and quiet on the Alexandra’s garden terrace.
Caroline’s must-haves also include a portable speaker, which helps inject positive energy into her post-match workouts and cooldowns at the hotel’s gym and sauna, as well as a portable steamer, so her outfits are crisp both on the court and after matches at the Hilton’s on-site restaurants.
Cameron Norrie
Cameron Norrie knows that even the smallest details can affect how you play. While staying at the Canopy by Hilton London City, he revealed that one of his go-to items while traveling is a scale to make sure he’s at his ideal weight before a match. Cameron shared how hotel amenities also play a major role in his stay, as he frequently makes use of Hilton’s state-of-the-art dining options and Peloton bikes to prepare for and recover from matches.
With so much time spent on the road, the 2021 BNP Paribas Open champion also noted how important comfort is. Having his Rubik’s cube, deck of cards, and portable speaker help him feel at ease, but even more important is the proper hotel. He explained, “Where I’m staying, it’s extremely important. You want to feel like you’re at home, and you want to feel good. These small things can be the difference between winning or losing.”
Tommy Paul
During his stay at The Ray Hotel Delray Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton, Tommy Paul shared some of his most practical travel essentials, including sunscreen, protein powder, his watch, and, of course, his tennis racket. Tommy also spoke of his love for training and relaxing in the Sunshine State, and how The Ray’s pool facilities and proximity to the beach help him unwind.
When he’s not on the court, Tommy and his team enjoy going out to eat, and having access to high-quality and nutritious meals at the hotel is a major advantage. The Ray’s well-stocked gym also helps Tommy and his team prepare physically and mentally for his matches.
Sloane Stephens
Former U.S. Open champion Sloane Stephens gave a behind-the-scenes look at her travel routine while staying at the Hilton Conrad Los Angeles. Like any professional athlete, Sloane always prioritizes health and fitness, especially while traveling. She’s always sure to pack her go-to water bottle and trusted tennis shoes, and she explained how the Conrad’s amenities, including its top-of-the-line gym and spa, help her prepare for matches and facilitate her recovery.
Nutrition is also an important part of any athlete’s game, and Sloane enjoys trying the best cuisines throughout her travels. With luxury on-site dining options and concierge recommendations and assistance securing reservations at top restaurants, Hilton’s amenities allow Sloane to make the most of her stays.