ISSUE NO. 13

We heard you…

@Clubhouse

Sunday, January 5th— As we kick off 2025, we’re diving straight into the action with another year of tennis, culture, and all the unexpected twists this sport has to offer. Whether you’re gearing up for the season ahead or still recovering from the holidays, we’ve got you covered with fresh content, exciting updates, and some bold perspectives on what’s shaping the tennis world. Get ready for an exciting ride—2025 is here, and it’s time to make your next move.


Cheers,

Clyde & Oliver

AESTHETICS

Little Miss Sunshine

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Yell’r

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COURT-SIDE STAYS

Park Hotel

Vitznau, Switzerland

If you’re dreaming of tennis with a view, the Park Hotel Vitznau is your spot. Nestled on the shores of Lake Lucerne and surrounded by the Swiss Alps, this luxury retreat feels like it’s been lifted from the pages of a storybook. Built in 1903 and meticulously renovated over six years, it combines timeless elegance with cutting-edge amenities, creating the perfect balance of old-world grandeur and modern sophistication.


After a few sets on the exclusive fast grass court, treat yourself to Michelin-starred dining at ATELIER and PRISMA, where the culinary experience rivals the spectacular scenery. And if you're looking to unwind, dive into the infinity pool that flows into the lake, or take a scenic hike up Mount Rigi to enjoy the breathtaking alpine vistas.


For those days when you just need to relax, the private lakeside beach is the perfect escape. Whether you’re after adventure or relaxation, the Park Hotel Vitznau has everything you need—minus the stress. It’s luxury done right, without the pretense.

COURT-SIDE PROPERTIES

East Hampton, NY

©Compass

Listed at $18,500,000, 13 Terry’s Trail is a sleek 9,000-square-foot architectural gem tucked away in East Hampton’s prestigious Grace Estates. Designed by the renowned Audrey Matlock, this stunning home offers the rare combination of modern luxury and natural seclusion, sitting on over 12 acres and bordering a 500+ acre nature preserve. Privacy? It’s practically guaranteed.


The home’s L-shaped layout invites the outdoors in with floor-to-ceiling glass doors, a show-stopping double-sided basalt fireplace, and a primary suite with a private patio and sleek fireplace. The upper level features a gym, office, and sun-drenched den leading to a roof deck perfect for sunset cocktails. Outside, the sunken DecoTurf tennis court, heated pool, and spa are all set against sweeping views of the landscape, making this more than a home—it’s a personal retreat.


For those seeking a combination of cutting-edge design and serenity, 13 Terry’s Trail offers everything you could want and more, in one of East Hampton’s most coveted locations.

Sky Kim, founder of Road to Pro (RTP) Tennis, has transformed his personal journey through the sport into a mission to enhance player performance and prevent injuries. A former professional player and esteemed coach, Kim’s career was marked by significant injuries, including knee surgeries and shoulder issues, which ultimately curtailed his aspirations on the ATP Tour.


Drawing from these experiences, Kim established RTP Tennis to develop innovative products aimed at safeguarding athletes from similar setbacks. Among his notable inventions are the ShockSorb Dampeners and Heel Pad XC Insoles, both designed to reduce impact and enhance comfort during play.


Beyond product development, Kim has made significant contributions as a coach, working with top-tier players and authoring the book “Art of War: Art of Tennis.” His dedication to the sport is further exemplified by his efforts to make tennis more accessible and enjoyable for players of all levels.


We are thrilled to have RTP Tennis as our sponsor this week. Their commitment to innovation and player well-being resonates deeply with our community, and we wholeheartedly support their endeavors to advance the sport we all love.


We’ve personally used the products below and can’t recommend them enough. Whether you’re managing injuries, recovering from setbacks, or simply looking for added comfort and protection to stay in peak form. The exceptional quality and thoughtful design of each product reflect Sky Kim’s unwavering dedication to the tennis community. Experience the difference for yourself—you won’t be disappointed!


Plus, as a ClubHouse reader, you get 10% off. Use the coupon code LOVECLUB at checkout, you can thank us later.


UltraGrip V2 Socks: Dual-sided non-slip for unmatched grip and stability on the court.

ShockSorb Dampener V3: The ultimate dampener that actually minimizes vibration.

HeelPad XC: Shield your joints while maintaining a natural feel in every step.

THE PRO SHOP

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AROUND THE NET

Bob Brett Mentoring Award: Tennis coaching legends recognized for their influence and contributions to the sport’s future.

Retirements in ATP Semifinals: Several players retired during their semifinal matches, creating a dramatic twist in the tournament.

Roland Garros' AI Christmas Card: Roland Garros transforms Nadal into a quirky Santa Claus—an AI-generated holiday surprise.

The Mystery of Camila Giorgi: A look into what’s been happening with Camila Giorgi and the ongoing intrigue around her career.


Recycling Tennis Balls: A fresh approach to sustainability—turning old tires into new tennis balls for the eco-conscious player.


Rod Laver's Absence from Australian Open: Rod Laver will miss the Australian Open, citing health concerns as the reason behind his decision.


Vintage Donnay Borg Pro Tennis Racket: Own a piece of tennis history with this iconic vintage racket, once wielded by the legendary Björn Borg.


Tennis Scoring Overhaul: The impact of new scoring rules on the game and how they’ll shape play moving forward.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Robert Haillet, before Stan Smith

©ClubHouse

Before Adidas revolutionized tennis footwear, players primarily wore canvas shoes with rubber soles. These lightweight, flat-soled sneakers, such as the classic Converse Jack Purcell and Dunlop Volley, were staples on the court for their flexibility and simplicity. While adequate for the time, these canvas designs lacked durability and support, offering little in terms of innovation for high-intensity play. As the game grew more competitive, the limitations of these shoes became apparent, paving the way for advancements in tennis footwear.


In 1965, Adidas introduced the Adidas Robert Haillet, the first tennis shoe made entirely of leather. This groundbreaking design offered superior durability and support, while its minimalist, perforated design provided better breathability. Named after French tennis player Robert Haillet, the shoe quickly gained popularity among professionals and amateurs alike. When Haillet retired in the early 1970s, Adidas rebranded the shoe, partnering with rising American tennis star Stan Smith in 1971. By 1978, the shoe officially bore Smith’s name, featuring his portrait on the tongue and signature on the side. This new identity, with its clean aesthetic and high performance, set the stage for its dominance on the court.


The Stan Smith redefined tennis footwear during the 1970s and early 1980s, but as technology advanced, the shoe transitioned from performance to lifestyle. By the mid-1980s, modern tennis shoes with more cushioning and lighter materials replaced the leather design on the court. Yet, the Stan Smith found a second life in fashion, becoming a global style icon thanks to its timeless design. Its relaunch in 2014 further solidified its legacy as more than a tennis shoe, it became a cultural phenomenon, representing the evolution of sport, innovation, and enduring style.

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Thanks for reading.

Until next time, we’ll see you out there.

Yes, Coach

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