World Team Tennis is returning this December with a fresh slate of franchises, and the Florida Flamingos are set to make a splash in Sunrise. Rising tennis star and two‑time Grand Slam singles champion Coco Gauff announced she will serve as both a player and part‑owner of the team.
Local roots, hometown excitement
Gauff, who grew up in Delray Beach, said she is thrilled to compete “in front of my family and friends in South Florida.” The Flamingos will host their home matches on Dec. 14 and Dec. 15 at the Amerant Bank Arena, the same venue that houses the NHL’s Florida Panthers.
Team composition and schedule
The Flamingos roster features a blend of established pros and rising talent. Alongside Gauff, the line‑up includes Tommy Paul, Leander Tien, Iva Jovic, Brandon Nakashima and Eva Lys. The league’s new match format will showcase four singles sets—men’s No. 1, women’s No. 1, men’s No. 2, women’s No. 2—followed by a mixed‑doubles super tiebreaker, ensuring fast‑paced, family‑friendly action.
World Team Tennis history and the Florida franchise
World Team Tennis was founded in 1974 as a mixed‑gender, team‑based alternative to traditional tournament play. Hall of Famer Billie Jean King was among the original founders, and the league has continued to promote gender‑balanced competition. The Flamingos were one of the original franchises and are returning to the spotlight after a brief hiatus.
Regional rivals and upcoming competition
Florida’s rivals this season include the New York Empire Racquet Club, featuring U.S. Open semifinalists Frances Tiafoe and Jessica Pegula, and the Toronto North Racquet Club, which will field Canadian stars Denis Shapovalov, Leylah Fernandez, Victoria Mboko and Gabriel Diallo. The condensed December schedule promises intense matchups as each team vies for the league title.
What this means for South Florida fans
For local tennis enthusiasts, Gauff’s involvement offers a rare chance to watch a world‑class player compete in a team environment—a format seldom seen on the professional circuit. The Flamingos’ home venue is easily accessible for residents of Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale, and the broader Miami‑Dade area, and the arena’s capacity ensures a lively atmosphere for families and supporters.
Looking ahead
Beyond the December fixtures, the Flamingos aim to build a sustainable presence in the region, leveraging Gauff’s star power to attract sponsors, youth programs, and community outreach initiatives. The team’s ownership group has expressed a commitment to fostering local talent and providing mentorship opportunities for aspiring players.
Tickets for the Dec. 14‑15 matches are now on sale, with early‑bird pricing available through the official World Team Tennis website. Fans are encouraged to secure seats early, as demand is expected to be high for what promises to be an exciting debut for the Florida Flamingos under Gauff’s dual role as player‑owner.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
