Our Story

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The story of Polonia Open began with a shared passion for tennis and a vision to unite the Polish-American community through sport. In 1998, Arthur Bobko and a group of tennis enthusiasts associated with the Riverdale Tennis Center in New York came up with the idea of creating an event that would connect people of Polish and Slavic heritage while promoting an active lifestyle, friendship, and cultural exchange.

That vision became reality in 2000, when the first Polonia Open tournament was held in Sarasota, Florida. Seventy-four players representing the United States, Poland, Canada, England, and Germany competed in the inaugural event, which also included a golf component. The tournament’s success confirmed the need for an international gathering that combined competitive tennis with community engagement.

Over the years, Polonia Open expanded into a recognized series of annual events, including winter tournaments in Florida and summer competitions in New York. Since 2010, the Summer Swing tournament has been hosted at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, one of the most renowned tennis facilities in the world.

As the organization grew, its mission evolved beyond tournament play. The Polonia Tennis Association Foundation became an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to promoting tennis, supporting youth development, and strengthening the Polish-American community.

The Foundation focuses on:

• Developing Young Players: Supporting children and youth through tennis programs, scholarships, and athletic opportunities.
• Tennis Education: Organizing camps, clinics, coaching programs, and access to equipment and facilities.
• Community Building: Creating opportunities for players, families, and supporters to connect through shared cultural and sporting experiences.

What started as a community initiative has grown into an organization that has passed on the love of tennis to many young players and brought together people from across North America and Europe. Through tournaments, educational programs, and charitable activities, the Polonia Tennis Association Foundation continues to promote healthy living, sportsmanship, and cultural connection.

As we look ahead, we remain committed to inspiring future generations, expanding access to tennis, and strengthening the bonds of our growing international community. Every tournament, every young athlete supported, and every friendship formed on the court is part of the ongoing Polonia Open story.