Ralph & Mary Wilson
Friendship Cup
Ralph and Mary Wilson
The Wilson Friendship Cup is a one-of-a-kind international team event for women aged 75 and older, created to honor the competitive spirit and camaraderie of senior women’s tennis players around the world.
Organized and hosted by the National Women’s Tennis Organization (NWTO) and made possible by generous support from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, the event first took place in 2001 on the shores of Lake Wörthersee in Pörtschach, Austria. Since then, more than 300 women from across the globe have participated in this unique celebration of sport and friendship.
Unlike most tournaments, the Wilson Friendship Cup isn’t about rankings or titles. Team members are chosen by lottery, making the experience both inclusive and exciting. Players may only participate once, ensuring that each event features a brand-new group of competitors and new friendships waiting to be made.
The Cup is held every two years, always just before a major international tournament—most recently the ITF MT700 in Feld am See, Austria. Those who choose to stay and compete in the ITF event are treated to extended hotel accommodations with half board (breakfast and dinner), thanks to continued Foundation support.
For many longtime competitors, the Wilson Friendship Cup has been their first opportunity to represent a team on the international stage. It is a beloved part of NWTO’s legacy—and one of the most joyful experiences we offer.
Applications open each fall in the year prior to the competition. The next Wilson Friendship Cup will take place in September 2026.
2026 FRIENDSHIP CUP
FELD AM SEE, AUSTRIA
DATES: SEPTEMBER 2026, TBD
Applications DEADLINE: NOVEMEBER 1, 2025
SUBMISSION DEADLINE: November 1, 2025
Send your questions to CINDY BABB, PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Email: wilsonfriendshipcup@gmail.com
2024 Mary & Ralph Wilson Friendship Cup
by Brenda Winstead
The United States Team was represented by: Brenda Carter, Gay Finch, Susan Kimball, Lida Lloyd, Judy McAllister, Toni Novak, Mary Alice Pisani, Hanni Seitz, Chris Smith, Adrienne Sprouse, Suella Steel, Brenda Winstead
The 2024 Ralph and Mary Wilson Friendship Cup was held September 8-11 in the idyllic Carinthian village of Feld am See, Austria. Mary and Ralph’s philosophy behind the Friendship Cup is to celebrate women who have put themselves on the line by competing in National and Level 2 tournaments. Because of their generous tribute, twelve women 75 and older from the United States and 12 International players are randomly selected to compete in singles and doubles in beautiful Austria. I encourage you to submit your application for the 2026 FC. After reading the impressions from some of the 2024 participants, I know you will want to be a part of the incredible adventure!
Toni Novack—The Friendship Cup team in Austria was a joy to be a part of--tennis is always competitive but the “sisterhood”, fellowship, and bonds that are part of this event is what makes this tournament special. Thank you Mary (and Ralph) for giving us this incredible opportunity.
Mary Alice Pisani—Friendship Cup is tennis in a spectacular mountain setting with dense forest, rushing streams, biking/hiking trails and a lake and pools for swimming. But the best part is meeting players from all over the USA and the world who share a love of tennis competition.
Brenda Carter—The Friendship Cup event has been a once in a lifetime experience for me. We have had the opportunity to combine the beauty of location, fun tennis, tough competition, new friends, teamwork, lots of laughs and much more. I am forever thankful.
Adrienne Sprouse—We have traveled to Feld am See from hither and yon, across many oceans, each with a rich and heartfelt story to tell. Tennis has not been our only ambition, but at this point in our lives, tennis is one of our most endearing loves. The Friendship Cup honors our age and achievements and provides a loving tribute to senior women tennis fostering friendship and sportsmanship around the globe. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity to compete in the sport we love.
Anne Rungi and Jeannette McGlone (International players)—The International Team captained by Kerry Ballard faced off against a strong American team competing in 12 singles matches on Day #1 and 6 doubles matches on Day #2. The competing teams displayed great sportsmanship. The International Team prevailed, earning the honor of their names to be engraved on the coveted Friendship Cup trophy. Tennis was the activity but friendship was the goal. The Alte Post Hotel, part of the beautiful Brennseehof Resort, provided the rooms and hospitality for all players. Our breakfasts, lunches and dinners and gala events were superb. The food was delicious, always artistically presented with attention to any dietary needs. The staff was incredible. Our sincere thanks to Ann Moore, the Foundation’s Program Director and Kathy Langer, her Executive Assistant, for their dedication in ensuring the success of this memorable, world class event. The International Team appreciates the continuing generosity of Mary Wilson making this unique event possible. Thank You!
Brenda Winstead—The Friendship Cup was special in many ways. For me, it was my first experience playing in an international competition. Playing on red clay surrounded by a lake and the Alps in beautiful Feld am See was amazing. The competition was fierce but after the matches there was mutual appreciation and bonding. I would like to thank Anne Moore and Kathy Langer for their dedication and commitment to making this year’s Friendship Cup a memorable experience. Your attention to detail made it truly special. And, thank you Mary for making this journey an unforgettable experience!