On August 25, The Knockturnal was invited to a special cocktail party with tennis star Rafael Nadal in Lotte New York Palace’s iconic courtyard. We attended to cheer on Nadal as he warmed up for the US Open with a spirited game of virtual tennis.
Guests enjoyed handcrafted cocktails, such as the special Mixed Doubles, and light bites. A light drizzle delayed the Wii Tennis matches, but when the rain cleared up, the party was an absolute blast. The highlight was when Serena and Venus Williams made a surprise appearance.
Delectible h’orderves, were passed around on tennis rackerts like Avacado Ceviche, Zucchini and Eggplant, Watermelon and Cheese, Buffalo chicken and cheese served on a cracker, Lobster salad and Shrimp and Chorizo.
For dessert attendees enjoyed mini ice cream cones, tennis ball cake pops and ice cream sandwiches!
A video played showcasing the hotel’s mission. They strive to offer the highest quality service for all guests. The Williams sisters posed for photos and loads of selfies with fans.
Hotel manager Becky Hubbard also said a few words. “Thank you so much for choosing to spend your time with us this evening and for your business with us throughout the year. I’m deeply honored to welcome back two-time US Open, 14-time grand slam winner Rafael Nadal … I’m also extremely excited to welcome Serena and Venus Williams. Serena as you probably know is currently ranked number one in the world, a 22-time grand slam champion. Good luck to you. Venus is a 2-time US Open, 7-time grand slam winner … We are so delighted that these renowned tennis icons could be with us today.”
Next up the Williams Sisters battled it out on Wii Tennis. Then Nadal came out and they all posed for photos. Nadal then played Hubbard and three journalists. He then posed for many fan photos. The event was so much fun and we can’t wait to attend next year!
To check out amazing fan photos from the event check the hashtag #palaceperks, follow @newyorkpalace on instagram and follow the hotel on twitter @newyorkpalaceny.
Light bites @LotteNYPalaceRP honoring @RafaelNadal pic.twitter.com/prIpsFRHKE
— The Knockturnal (@_TheKnockturnal) August 25, 2016
On the scene @RafaelNadal #palaceperks pic.twitter.com/LO2tJYBii8
— The Knockturnal (@_TheKnockturnal) August 25, 2016
@RafaelNadal plays virtual #tennis with our GM, Becky Hubbard. #palaceperks pic.twitter.com/kxjUpTnQdm
— Lotte NY Palace (@lottenypalace) August 25, 2016
@RafaelNadal is here! @serenawilliams @Venuseswilliams #palaceperks pic.twitter.com/dEN3UdvO86
— The Knockturnal (@_TheKnockturnal) August 25, 2016
