On June 22, Elite Traveler hosted the welcome gathering for the Giorgio Armani Tennis Classic at the Pavilion Club in Knightsbridge. This evening event provided a casual setting for tournament players like Mansour Bahrami and Flavia Pennetta, as well as their guests, to kick off five days of tennis at The Hurlingham Club.
Now in its second year as an official sponsor, Elite Traveler underscores its commitment to the Giorgio Armani Tennis Classic, a grass-court tournament that has become a key part of London‘s summer sports agenda. This event takes place the week before Wimbledon, allowing fans to catch many of the sport’s biggest names before they compete at SW19. The week has evolved into both a sporting and social highlight, featuring player Q&As, exclusive hospitality spaces, champagne receptions, and Michelin-starred dining options.
This year’s lineup featured players such as Jannik Sinner, Casper Ruud, Ben Shelton, Cameron Norrie, and Tommy Paul, alongside beloved legends Mansour Bahrami, Michael Chang, and Monica Puig. The tournament serves as one of the last chances to see these athletes compete on grass ahead of Wimbledon, with many utilizing the event as part of their preparations for the prestigious championship.
The welcome gathering took full advantage of one of London’s warmest summer evenings. Guests congregated on the Pavilion terrace, enjoying drinks and conversation before the matches commenced the next day. A selection of Whispering Angel rosé, cocktails from The Macallan, gin and tonics from Warner’s, Estrella beers, and refreshments from Fever-Tree were served throughout the night.
As the sun set, Elite Traveler editor-in-chief Paul Croughton addressed the guests, highlighting the publication’s ongoing collaboration with the tournament. The terrace buzzed with music, chatter, and familiar faces from travel, sports, and luxury sectors.
Brands Behind the Tournament
The evening also highlighted the brands supporting this year’s tournament, including Somabay, Whispering Angel for hospitality, as well as The Macallan, Warner’s, Estrella, and Fever-Tree. The Pavilion Club offered an exquisite backdrop for the festivities.
