Tournament Recap: Level 1 USTA National Women’s, Men’s, Mixed Clay Court Championships
Julie Thu
DATES: March 27-31, 2026
LOCATION: Ft. Lauderdale, FL
DIVISIONS: Women’s and Men’s 45s, & Mixed
The Lauderdale Tennis Club once again proved why it remains one of Florida’s most iconic tennis venues, hosting the Women’s and Men’s 45 Clay Court National Championships in an atmosphere steeped in history and energy. Since its founding in 1976, the club has welcomed legends of the game – Chris Evert, Martina Navratilova, Andy Roddick, and the Bryan Brothers among them – continuing a tradition that dates back to the days of the Virginia Slims Circuit.
Now in its second year at Lauderdale Tennis Club for the Women’s 45, this event has firmly established itself as a highlight on the calendar, with high level competitors and a vibrant mixed doubles draw. NWTO had a strong presence throughout the event, highlighted by a daily information table hosted by club member Lou Armstrong. The players also enjoyed a happy hour social, complete with hors d’oeuvres and drink tickets to the courtside patio bar, always a hit after a long day on the courts. To top it off, the tournament provided lunch each day, a convenient and much-appreciated touch that added to the overall player experience.
The draws were stacked with talent, featuring many of the top players in the 45s and 50s divisions competing on clay. Participation saw a strong jump from last year: singles grew from 8 to 11 players, doubles from 4 to 10 teams, and mixed doubles from 4 to 8 teams. As the tournament continues to expand alongside its men’s event, it’s clearly becoming a go-to destination for players seeking both high-level competition and a memorable setting.
QUICK RESULTS
WOMEN’S 45s SINGLES
🥇 Julie Thu
🥈 Nena Day
🥉 Julia Dimitrov
WOMEN’S 45s DOUBLES
🥇 Julia Dimitrov / Brandi Bratek
🥈 Francesca LaO / Isabela Iantosca
🥉 Nena Day / Sarah Barnhill
MIXED 45s DOUBLES
🥇 Julie Thu / Grant Chambers
🥈 Nena Day / Josh Basha
🥉 Olga Harvey / Nik Yip