Oct. 30, 2003

U.S. Open Champion Andy Roddick and top young American James Blake will square off in the featured match of the “Lexus Tennis Classic presented by the Lexington Tennis Club” at Lexington’s Rupp Arena on Dec. 7, 2003, Kentucky Men’s Tennis Coach Dennis Emery announced Thursday.

Proceeds from this professional tennis exhibition will benefit the UK tennis program.

The Lexus Tennis Classic opens with a doubles match between the world’s No. 1-ranked team, twins Bob and Mike Bryan, against former UK stars Cedric Kauffmann and Greg Van Emburgh at 5:30 p.m. Roddick is ranked No. 2 in the world in singles after winning his first Grand Slam event in September. Blake, who in 2002 was voted the sexiest male athlete by People Magazine, is ranked 36th in the world.

Andy Roddick (left) and James Blake will be the featured singles match.

“This should be a tremendous event to raise money for our tennis program,” Coach Emery said. “To have this level of talent coming to Lexington is a rare feat, not only for the tennis community here in the state, but for everyone who appreciates watching sports played at the highest level. Roddick is the future of American tennis, and Blake is not far behind and both have huge followings among the younger set.

“We’re excited that Game Seven Sports Marketing, the Lexus Store and the Lexington Tennis Club have joined forces to benefit our tennis program.”

Only the lower arena will be available for spectators and seats are priced at $40 and $30. Tickets can be purchased beginning this Saturday at 10 a.m. EST through the Rupp Arena box office, all Ticketmaster locations and ticketmater.com or by calling 859-233-3535 or 859-281-6644. Visa, MasterCard and Discover are accepted.

Sponsorship opportunities and boxes of eight can be purchased by calling Game Seven Sports Marketing at 859-514-7425, extension 107.