On Thursday, August 21, 2025, the brand-new Hyatt Regency Times Square brought the spirit of the US Open right to Midtown Manhattan with an unforgettable pop-up pickleball event. The hotel’s outdoor porte cochere was masterfully transformed into a full-sized pickleball court, creating a one-of-a-kind setting where professional tennis stars faced off with local New Yorkers in a fun and energetic celebration.
The event, “Pickleball with the Pros,” featured tennis icons Taylor Townsend, Barbora Krejčíková, and Caroline Garcia — three of the world’s top-ranked athletes who showcased their skills on this unexpected stage. Townsend, the current WTA World No. 1 in doubles and fresh off major doubles wins at Wimbledon and the Australian Open, joined Krejčíková (formerly ranked as high as world No. 2 in singles and No. 1 in doubles) and French star Garcia to bring top-tier tennis excitement to Times Square.
Guests had the incredible opportunity to take on these pros in friendly pickleball matches, creating unforgettable moments of fun, laughter, and surprise. Whether it was rallying with Taylor Townsend, getting a serve past Barbora Krejčíková, or exchanging volleys with Caroline Garcia, each match offered an up-close, personal encounter with tennis greatness. It was more than just a game — it was a chance for fans, hotel guests, and curious passersby to connect with world-class athletes in a relaxed, approachable setting. The event broke down the barriers between elite sport and everyday play, capturing the joyful, community-focused spirit of the US Open. It also perfectly marked the debut of the Hyatt Regency Times Square, showing off the hotel’s ability to bring high-energy, cultural moments to the very heart of the city.
The newly opened Hyatt Regency Times Square is a stunning addition to New York City’s hotel scene — the first Hyatt Regency in Manhattan and a bold new landmark on Broadway. With 795 stylish guestrooms, awe-inspiring views of the city, and a dramatic, glass-ceilinged porte cochere entrance, the hotel seamlessly blends comfort, functionality, and Broadway-inspired design. Following a multi-million-dollar transformation led by Highgate in collaboration with Lucid, Gensler, and Hyatt, the hotel now features a signature two-story lobby restaurant, one of Manhattan’s largest hotel fitness centers, and a morning-to-evening cafe lounge. From its soaring atrium overlooking the lights of 48th Street to curated local programming and distinctive dining, Hyatt Regency Times Square delivers an elevated stay for both business and leisure travelers.
Adding to the excitement of the event, Taylor Townsend announced the launch of her brand-new clothing line, TT, capping off a day filled with fashion, fun, and fierce competition. The next day, she officially debuted the collection with an exclusive pop-up at the Hyatt Regency Times Square — marking a bold new chapter in what has already been a remarkable year for the tennis star. Townsend is taking the tennis world by storm — not only with her explosive play, but with her unapologetic authenticity, fashion-forward vision, and unwavering grace under pressure. A true poster girl for class, perseverance, and presence, she continues to inspire fans around the world.
At this year’s US Open, Townsend scored a notable win over Jelena Ostapenko, a match that not only highlighted her talent but also her professionalism. Despite Ostapenko’s visibly poor sportsmanship in defeat, Townsend handled the moment with poise — earning praise for her composure and character. Later in the tournament, she fought through a long, hard-fought singles match that ultimately ended in a loss — but not without showcasing her tenacity. And while her singles campaign has wrapped, her run at the US Open is far from over — Townsend remains firmly in the spotlight as the World No. 1 in doubles, still in contention for another major title.
Off the court, her impact is just as powerful. Developed in collaboration with creative director Alexander John, Townsend’s new clothing line, TT, reflects her individuality and strength — blending comfort, performance, and bold personal style. After years as a Nike ambassador and working with other top brands, Townsend set out to build something that truly represents her voice. She wanted to wear something that truly represents her — and TT delivers exactly that. The exclusive pop-up at Hyatt Regency Times Square gave fans their first glimpse of the collection and opportunity to purchase.
