CLEVELAND \u2014 The serves are fast, the crowds are locked in, and the views are spectacular as Cleveland welcomes back Tennis in the Land for its fifth year.<\/p>\n
The weeklong tournament brings some of the top players in the world to the city\u2019s downtown courts, set against the backdrop of Cleveland\u2019s skyline. Organizers say the unique venue has helped the event grow into one of the premier stops on the tour.<\/p>\n
\u201cEach year it just keeps getting better and better,\u201d said Alexa Brooks of Tennis in the Land.<\/p>\n
For players, it\u2019s not just another tournament; it\u2019s a chance to fine-tune their game before heading to New York for the U.S. Open.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think it\u2019s the best possible way to prepare for the U.S. Open. So really excited to be here,\u201d one Swiss player, Viktorija Golubic, said.<\/p>\n
She’s making her second appearance at the Cleveland tournament, calling it a highlight of her year. She\u2019s been taking in more than just tennis while in town.<\/p>\n
\u201cI watched the Guardians yesterday play, so that was fun. Now I\u2019m preparing for my match here,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Fans, too, are embracing the event as an annual tradition. Olive Lynn has attended each year since the tournament launched.<\/p>\n
\u201cI love the players. I love the crew. We just have fun,\u201d Lynn said.<\/p>\n
The tournament features matches throughout the week, along with free access to a fan zone. A new addition this year is Kids Day, set for Aug. 17. The finals wrap up next Saturday.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s special! We don\u2019t have to go anywhere. We even have free parking! We parked down the street! It\u2019s wonderful,\u201d Lynn said. <\/p>\n