Q: The ATP 80 Men’s Tournament is also known as a “Challenger” tournament…what is it called now?
A: Due to restructure of the ATP and ITF along with USTA, these tournaments are now part of the Competitive Pathway as part of the Transition Tour.
The USTA Competitive Pathway:
• America’s gateway to tennis stardom
• Circuit started over 20 years ago
• The most comprehensive development tour in the world
• Over 1,000 tournament players each year
• Professional tournament competition for pros beginning their careers, pros who previously have broken into major tour ranks and are looking to return to the top and top-ranked junior players
• Managed nationally by the USTA and executed locally by tournament staff
Q: What’s “International” about the tournament?
A: Players from all over the world participate in the tournament. This reflects the international character of tennis. Players from Canada, Venezuela, Germany, Great Britain, Australia, Chile, the Netherlands, China, Puerto Rico and Argentina have played in the Kentucky Bank Tennis Championships over the years.
Q: Are Lexington Challenger players mostly college players and club pros?
A: No – they are touring pros. The players compete in tennis tournament around the world year-round.
Q: If these players are so good, why don’t I see them on TV?
A: Watch the early rounds or check the scores of any top tier tournaments or Grand Slam event and you will recognize many of the players that participate in the Lexington Challenger.
Q: How are players selected to participate in the Lexington Challenger?
A: A player can get into the main draw of the tournament in one of four ways:
- If their world ranking is approximately #150 or greater, they often gain entry into the main draw of the tournament.
- If their world ranking is approximately #150-600, they can play in the qualifying tournament which begins on Saturday before the main draw. The four players who win all three of their matches in the qualifying tournament gain entry into the main draw.
- One of the players who lost in the last round of qualifying is selected via a random drawing and may get into the main draw if a spot opens up due to the withdrawal of one of the main draw players.
- Local tournament officials as well as USTA officials can give any player they choose entry into the main draw or the qualifying tournament. These players are referred to as “wildcards.” Typically, there are 2-4 wildcard entries into both the qualifying and main draws.
Q: I have a day job and can’t attend day matches on weekdays.
A: Don’t make excuses! Main draw featured evening matches are scheduled for each night during the week.
Q: Who is responsible for organizing the Lexington Challenger?
A: The tournament is a United States Tennis Association Pro Circuit event that is officially sanctioned by the USTA, ITF and ATP. However, most of the logistical and organizational work is managed by Lexington Challenger Tennis Charity, Inc..
Q: Can I volunteer to work at the tournament?
A: Definitely – you can be part of the action. Meet the players and help make the Lexington Challenger a success. Volunteers are needed to help in the following areas:
• Housing
• Transportation
• Special Events
• Ushers
• Operations
• Ball Kids
Click here to register to volunteer.
Q: Is there a phone number I can call for additional details and information about the Lexington Challenger?
A: Tournament Director Brooks Lundy can be contacted at 859-509-9707 or lblundy1@gmail.com.
Q: I am a member of the media and want to do a story about the tournament and some of the participating players – who do I contact to set up interviews and get more information?
A: Chris Shoals is the media direction and can be contacted at 513-312-2489 or cmsh223@uky.edu