Welcome to the MTG newsletter—your courtside download for what’s happening on (and slightly off) the court. Expect upcoming events, special programs, and member spotlights… plus the occasional unforced error we’ll pretend was strategic.
Member Spotlight
MTG is only possible by its people—so we’re putting them in the spotlight (because honestly, the group chat can only do so much). Each edition, we’ll feature a member sharing their tennis story, life off court, and a few fun, slightly unhinged questions for good measure.
MEET YUHAO FENG
When did you join MTG and why?
Summer of 2025, my bestie Ray Zhong recommended to me, I had played tennis once or twice in before that but always trying to find a community to practice
Favorite part of MTG?
You have unlimited support (and sometimes gossip ) from a community of talented and loving people
Favorite tennis player? (or your tennis crush!)
Daddy Novak, just because he’s still hustling!
What's your signature shot?
On a good day, deep forehand crosscourt
Any advice for new members?
Just be brave and say hi, everyone is welcomed here!
US Open Pride Day
The US Open is about world-class tennis, but it's also a stage for visibility, representation, and community. MTG was proud to be part of this year's Pride celebration, showing up for LGBTQ+ tennis at one of the sport's biggest events.
At a venue named for Billie Jean King, one of tennis's most important LGBTQ+ pioneers, it was especially fitting to see queer players, fans, and allies celebrated on the courts where tennis history continues to be made.
We were proud to be there, proud to be visible, and proud to represent MTG on the biggest stage in tennis. The experience left lasting impressions and lifelong memories for those that had a chance to participate:
“Participating in Pride Day at the US Open is always a highlight for me. Seeing the LGBTQ+ community celebrated on such a major stage is incredibly affirming and sends a powerful message: we belong in these spaces, and inclusion belongs at the highest levels of sport. I’m grateful to MTG, USTA, and all the volunteers and organizers who made this experience so special.” — Javier
“Such an epic once in a lifetime experience. I will be forever grateful to MTG and USTA for so many things in my life, including this ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️” – Russ
Read more about Pride at the US Open
☀️ Summer Ladder: The Numbers Are Getting Out of Hand
The 2026 Summer Ladder is officially our biggest and most active season yet. Turns out, everyone found time to play one more match — and then another. And another.
229 registrations — an all-time record
886 matches played — an all-time record
486 Division A matches — more than double the previous record
400 Division B matches — an all-time record
4 sold-out Ladderpalooza events — we went from one to FOUR, and each sold out in minutes
A huge thank-you to everyone who filled out our Summer Ladder survey! Your feedback will help us make next season even better.
Playoffs run through November 8, with Division Finals scheduled for November 16–December 20.
Follow the Summer Ladder Standings and Playoffs
The Cup Is Coming Home!
MTG won the 2026 Atlantic Cup, bringing the title back to New York for the first time since 2010. SIXTEEN. YEARS. And this one came down to the wire.
Tennis can be a solitary sport, but this weekend was all about showing up for each other. From team chants and matching shirts to running between courts to cheer each other on, the chemistry was undeniable.
As Yu Yang put it:
“You could feel a special chemistry that carried through the entire weekend. Our captains did an incredible job curating a group of people who went beyond just playing tennis and truly showed up as a team.”
Overheard & Unforgettable
Manoj, chief hype man: “Let’s go New York!” and “Yu Yang, those thighs are looking scrumptious!” — with commentary loud enough to reach 10 courts away.
Serve of the weekend: Zack unleashes a 120+ mph bomb, prompting Chris to shout, “We see you, Ben Shelton!”
1 a.m. in Philly: A 20-minute wait for a $10 slice of pizza. The reviews were mixed.
A Dramatic Finish
New York and Philly were tied at 34 points each. Everything came down to the final match between Philly and DC. When DC won, the balcony erupted in cautious applause — nobody knew the tiebreaker math.
After a dramatic recount, the verdict: New York won by just five games.
Huge love to everyone who played, cheered, organized, and brought the energy. This win belongs to the entire MTG community.
And next year? The Atlantic Cup comes to NYC — and MTG is hosting. We have a title to defend and a tournament to put on. No pressure.
Total Tennis Is Back This December
Ready for a weekend of tennis, good company, and a change of scenery? Join fellow MTG players for one of two Total Tennis weekends this December, featuring tennis and off-court fun just 2.5 hours north of NYC.
Expect professional instruction, a private lesson, and plenty of time to connect with fellow members. Basically, a weekend of working on your game without having to organize your own doubles group chat.
Choose your weekend:
December 4–6 (Soldout): Weekend 1 (Waitlist Available)
December 11–13: Register for Weekend 2
Spots are expected to be in high demand, with priority given to active MTG members. Visit the registration pages for full details, pricing, and booking information.
Questions? Contact your MTG coordinators at totaltennis@metrotennisgroup.com.
Women’s Tennis Community Update
It’s wonderful to see new faces as our women’s tennis community continues to grow! Each month, we welcome new players of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced players, and we’re excited to see our community thrive.
Women's Tennis Party
As of September, our monthly Saturday night Women’s Tennis Party on Roosevelt Island has resumed, and demand has been incredible! Events have been selling out, filling up, or reaching capacity within just 48 hours. Keep an eye out for registration for our November event!
Women's Total Tennis
Registration is also open for our 3rd Annual Women’s Weekend at Total Tennis February 5-7, 2027! Call Total Tennis to reserve your spot ASAP, as space is limited. We hope you’ll join us for another fantastic weekend of tennis, connection, and fun!
Register for the Women's Total Tennis Event
️ Help Shape What's Next for MTG
MTG is more than tennis. It's the friends who become your doubles partners, the group chats that never sleep, and the people who make you want to show up (even when your match is at 8 a.m.). Now it's time to help shape what comes next.
Five board positions are open for two-year terms beginning January 1, 2027:
Courts & Events Director — Create more opportunities to play.
Treasurer — Help keep MTG financially healthy.
Women's Director — Build community for women members on and off the court.
Membership Director — Make the member experience great.
Technology Director — Keep MTG's digital tools running smoothly.
Applications close October 30. Candidates must have been MTG members in good standing for at least 12 months and be able to commit to the role, including monthly Board meetings.
Voting is open to MTG members, with candidate information and ballots coming in November.
GLTA Tournament Champions
MTG members have been bringing home titles from GLTA tournaments around the world! Meet our recent champions, representing MTG on courts near and far.
Philadelphia Open 2026 — Philadelphia
B Doubles: Jonathan Greenway & Miroslav Trunec
C Singles: Spencer Schimel
C Doubles: Khai Nguyen & Kevin Santos
D Singles: Tyler Cook
IGO 2026 — Milan, Italy
A Doubles – Hard Court: James Scott Koob & Oliver Rübenkamp
Pride Slam 2026 — New York
A Doubles: Bradley Beasley & Cidric Trinidad
C Doubles: Antonio Gonzalez & Bill Kim
D Doubles: Matthew Johnson & Rome Romulo
Coupe de la Reine 2026 — Montreal
D Doubles: Joe Ottenthal & Christopher Schmitt
Peach International Tennis Championships: Sets in the City 2026 — Atlanta
D Doubles: Rome Romulo & Moo Sirikittisup
Fleur de Lis Tennis Tournament 2026 — New Orleans
Open Singles: Tim Wildin
D Singles: Steven Caleb Brown
D Doubles: Andre Mercado & Rome Romulo
Nashville Open 2026 — Nashville
C Singles: Fred Lujan
Learn more about on GLTA tournaments.
Join the MTG Community on WhatsApp
Our MTG Community on WhatsApp is growing! Join our dedicated space for MTG members to connect before, during, and after GLTA tournaments and other tennis events. Coordinate flights, hotels, rideshares, practice sessions, ask questions, and stay connected.
Join the MTG WhatsApp Community
⚠️ Please Note: To prevent spammers, this link will deactivate within 48 hours. If this link no longer works, just contact a board member to be manually added.
Photos by Garrett Ellwood/USTA
On September 3, Metropolitan Tennis Group joined the U.S. Open for its sixth annual Open Pride Day, bringing LGBTQ+ tennis visibility to the biggest stage in the sport.
From the moment fans arrived at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, Pride was everywhere—from rainbow signage and performances by the Queer Big Apple Corps Marching Band to Pride-themed moments throughout the grounds and inside Arthur Ashe Stadium. MTG members were also invited onto the court, becoming part of the day’s celebration and the U.S. Open’s official Open Pride coverage.
For MTG, being part of Open Pride was a meaningful reminder of how far LGBTQ+ tennis has come—and why visibility still matters. At a venue named for Billie Jean King, one of tennis’s most important LGBTQ+ pioneers, it was especially fitting to see queer players, fans and allies celebrated on the courts where tennis history continues to be made.
We were proud to be there, proud to be visible, and proud to represent MTG on the biggest stage in tennis. ️
Summer 2026
MTG is powered by its members, so we're shining a spotlight on the people who make our community special. Each newsletter, we'll feature one member's tennis journey, life off the court, and a few fun questions along the way.
When did you join MTG, and what brought you to the club?
I joined in Jan. 2015, after DECADES of being away from tennis. I wanted to get back into it, and to meet new people around the City.
What's your favorite part about being an MTG member?
Besides making incredible long-time friends, playing in different venues around the City.
Who is your favorite tennis player (or your tennis crush)?
Coco Gauff, Taylor Townsend, Daria Kasatkina
“Signature shot” is a bit over-blown but I hit a one-handed backhand.
What's one piece of advice you'd give to someone joining MTG for the first time?
Hit with EVERYONE – any age, any gender, any skill level. You’ll make great friends and your tennis will improve dramatically.
MTG members returned from the 2026 Gay Games in Valencia, Spain with 10 medals, proudly representing our community at the first Gay Games ever held in Spain and the Mediterranean region. More than 10,200 athletes from 81 countries competed across 37 sports, making this a truly unforgettable celebration of LGBTQ+ sport.
Gold
Silver
Bronze
Congratulations to all of our competitors for representing MTG with pride, sportsmanship, and excellence on the international stage.
Read the full recap and view photos from Valencia
The 2026 Liberty Open welcomed more than 150 players to New York City for a weekend of outstanding tennis, community, and connection. Hosted at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, players competed in 198 matches across 15 singles and doubles events, reaffirming the Liberty Open's place as one of the GLTA Tour's premier tournaments.
Beyond the competition, the weekend featured a conversation with tennis historian and The Open Era author Edward Schmit, hosted by comedian Chaka Khanvict, electrifying performances by Jason A. Rodriguez & the Vogue Troupe, and the unforgettable Love All Ball, led by ballroom icon Kevin Jz Prodigy. The tournament also raised funds to support The Trevor Project.
Tournament Director Kevin Ko reflects on the experience:
"The Banquet was a profoundly beautiful experience for me. It was one thing to help plan it on paper, but to be there in person was something else. The entire experience was beautiful. The lighting was dream-like, Chaka brought sass and glamour, Edward grounded the event with his deep insight on the psychology of being a professional athlete. But what was striking was that the joy and wonder I experienced kept growing through the night. By the time we got to the performance portion, I was at, 'there's more?' When the dancers came in, light on their feet, composed, graceful, and in perfect formation. I was struck by how many there were and had a sense this would be like nothing I'd seen before. It left me with an expansive optimism. Might what comes next for our community be better than anything we've seen before?"
Read the full tournament recap, view results, and relive the highlights
Follow the conversation:
Ready to represent MTG?
The Atlantic Cup returns October 3–4 in Philadelphia, and MTG is assembling a team of players from D through Open divisions to compete for this year's title.
Since 1992, the Atlantic Cup has brought together LGBTQ+ tennis clubs from Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. for a weekend of spirited singles and doubles competition, friendly rivalries, and unforgettable camaraderie. Each city fields teams across every skill level, earning points throughout the weekend in pursuit of the coveted Atlantic Cup trophy—and a year of bragging rights.
Whether you're a seasoned GLTA competitor or looking to represent MTG in a fun team format for the first time, we'd love to have you on the roster.
Complete the Atlantic Cup Interest Form
Deadline: July 31
Traveling to a GLTA tournament?
Join the MTG at GLTA Tournaments WhatsApp Community—a dedicated space for MTG members to connect before, during, and after tournaments. Coordinate flights, hotels, rideshares, practice sessions, ask questions, and stay connected throughout the weekend.
Whether it's your first GLTA tournament or your fiftieth, it's the easiest way to connect with fellow MTG members on the road.
The Gay and Lesbian Tennis Alliance (GLTA) sanctions more than 70 tournaments worldwide each year, welcoming players of every skill level in an inclusive and welcoming environment.
Join the WhatsApp Community
Learn more about GLTA tournaments
Thinking about a new racquet?
MTG members can demo one of four brand-new Diadem racquets during MTG sessions at the National Tennis Center. Try them during drills or match play to discover which model best fits your game.
Available Models
Bonus: MTG members receive 15% off at DiademSports.com with code MTG.
Save on top tennis gear with Tennis Warehouse.
Whether you're replacing worn-out shoes, refreshing your tennis wardrobe, or picking up a new bag, MTG members receive exclusive savings.
Member Discounts
Discounts apply to MSRP. Product exclusions may apply.
Discount codes are emailed to active MTG members at the beginning of each quarter. The most recent code was sent in July 2026. If you didn't receive it, can't find it, or have questions, please contact Chris Phillips at membership@metrotennisgroup.com
The Metropolitan Tennis Group is led by a dedicated team of volunteers committed to growing an inclusive, welcoming, and vibrant tennis community. Click on a board member's photo or name to learn more about them and the role they play in MTG.
Karen L. FunfgeldWomen's Director
Kevin Ko Sponsorship Director
Seong-Moh Yang Commissioner & Technology Director
Christopher Phillips Membership Director
Ray ZhongSocial Events Director
Khai NguyenCommunications Director
MTG is 100% volunteer-run. Behind every MTG event, league, and program is a team of dedicated volunteers. If you'd like to help make our community even stronger, we'd love to hear from you.
Learn more and complete the Volunteer Interest Form
Have a story to share, an idea for a future event, or feedback on the newsletter?
We'd love to hear from you. Simply reply to this email or reach out to a member of the MTG Board. Whether you're a longtime member or just joined the club, your ideas help shape our community.
Thank you for being part of MTG. We'll see you on the courts!
Spring 2026
MTG runs on its people—so we’re finally putting them in the spotlight (because honestly, the group chat can only do so much). Each edition, we’ll feature a member sharing their tennis story, life off court, and a few fun, slightly unhinged questions for good measure.
I was in Los Angeles Tennis Association when I was in LA, so joining a new LGBT tennis community is a “must-do” item. I heard about MTG when I was playing Orlando Tournament 2025, so I decided to join after I secured my job in New Jersey.
Favorite part is always the organization, so well organized and you got nothing to complain about.
Cameron Norrie, so hot, though flopped.
Serve
Join the events hosted by MTG, they are so fun and so well organized!
We’re looking for volunteers for two upcoming MTG events — the Liberty Open and Youth Pride at South Street Seaport — and would love your help. MTG is 100% volunteer-run, and every event we host depends on members stepping up to create welcoming, high-quality experiences for our community.
Liberty Open – Volunteer Needs
️ Youth Pride – South Street Seaport
Youth Pride is a free USTA-partnered event celebrating LGBTQIA+ youth with a safe, inclusive space featuring music, DJs, games, food, performances, and community resources — while connecting the next generation to tennis. Volunteers will rotate shifts helping run the MTG booth and support event operations:
If you’re available — even for part of a shift — we’d really appreciate your support. Every role helps these events run smoothly and strengthens our community.
Learn more about other volunteering opportunities here: https://www.metrotennisgroup.com/volunteer
This year we’ve added new member benefits and want to make sure you’re aware of everything available to you, both new and existing.
Visit the Member Benefits for more information:
The Finish Line is in Sight!
The Winter Doubles League is entering its final stretch, and it’s been one for the record books. Between the fierce competition and two major snowstorms that wiped out 24 matches, we are officially headed for the latest ending in MTG history.
Final Matches: April 26, 2026
The Competition: 96 players | 6 divisions | 168 matches
The Stakes: Glory, bragging rights, and trophies!
Click Here to Follow the Final Standings
Don’t forget to join us in May at our Outdoor Season Opening Party, where we will officially crown our Winners and Runners-Up!
Ray Zhong, Social Director
Your tennis personality in 3 words?
Jelena Alona Ostapenko
Go-to shot under pressure?
Tequila
Dream doubles partner (real or fictional)?
Jessica Pegula (so I can travel with her private jet)
Favorite place to play in NYC?
As a Fort Greene local, I show allegiance to Fort Greene Park.
Post-match ritual?
Gossip
Khai Nguyen, Communications Director
Strategic. Hopeful. Overthinking.
A lethal, sometimes accurate, mostly not, slice drop shot – because why not go for a low percentage shot under high stress
Tommy Paul — I might have yelled a marriage proposal to him
East River Park courts — the views are incredible
Chocolate milkshake immediately, then replaying the trauma of being up 5–3 and losing 10 straight games (this really happened last weekend).
Christopher Phillips, Membership Director
Bipolar. Sweaty.
Topspin forehand
Martina Navratilova (old-school)
National Tennis Center, outdoors, under the big lights
Soaking in the post-win nirvana or quitting tennis after a loss (for a few hours at least)
Karen Funfgeld, Women's Director
Competitive, strategic & determined
Forehand on a rope down the line
Sabalanka, of course!!!
Outdoors NTC or Central Park
Post-match breakdown over cocktails
Kevin Ko, Sponsorship Director
aggressive, (a bit) impatient, risk-averse
wide-angle forehand
Hsieh su wei
West Side
ham string stretches, lots of them
Seong-Moh Yang, Commissioner & Technology Director
Tenacious or exasperated
I invite you to face me on court to find out!
Hsieh Su-Wei - hands of God, queen of the doubles court. She will do all of the hard work, and I get to admire from just a few feet away
North Bergen, NJ. Tons of courts, no wait, play till you drop
Handshake at the net, beer on the courtside bench with your former foe
