Serve First Open
ATP Challenger 125 Tournament Set For August 11–17, 2025
The City of Sumter is proud to announce the Serve First Open, an ATP Challenger 125 tournament, coming to the Palmetto Tennis Center from August 11–17, 2025—marking the most prestigious international sports tourism event the city has ever hosted.
As part of the second-highest tier of professional men’s tennis, the ATP Challenger 125 Tour brings some of the top-ranked players in the worldto compete just days before the US Open. This tournament serves as a pivotal warm-up for Grand Slam contenders and will thrust Sumter into the global tennis spotlight.
“Bringing this tournament to Sumter is more than an honor—it’s a game-changer,” said Mayor David Merchant. “We are hosting world-class athletes in a world-class facility, and the impact on our local economy, reputation, and pride is immeasurable. Sumter is ready—our team, our community, and our city are prepared to deliver an unforgettable experience on the international stage. This is the kind of moment communities work decades for.”
Athletes representing over 30 countries are expected to participate, with thousands of visitors, coaches, and fans traveling to Sumter. The tournament will be broadcast live on Tennis Channel and live streamed online, giving Sumter national and international exposure throughout the week. The event is expected to generate significant economic benefits for local hotels, restaurants, and small businesses, while solidifying Sumter’s reputation as a major player in sports tourism.
More information, including player announcements and match details, will be available soon at www.ServeFirstOpen.com.
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About the ATP Challenger 125 Tour
The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) is the governing body of the men's professional tennis circuits – the ATP Tour and the ATP Challenger Tour. It was formed in September 1972 by Donald Dell, Jack Kramer, and Cliff Drysdale to protect the interests of professional tennis players. The ATP's global headquarters are in London. ATP Americas is based in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida; ATP Europe is headquartered in Monaco; and ATP International, which covers Africa, Asia and Australasia, is based in Sydney, Australia.
