Lotte New York Palace hosted its annual event, The Palace Invitational, now in its ninth year, in the Villard Ballroom. Some of tennis’ biggest names battled for glory in a spirited pickleball tournament. Guests enjoyed courtside views while sipping the iconic Honey Deuce and Tattinger champagne, accompanied by light bites in celebration of America’s largest annual tennis tournament, the US Open.

Players included tennis legend Serena Williams, American tennis star Taylor Fritz, Italian tennis star Matteo Berrettini, and former world No.1 Caroline Wozniacki.

Emceed by 3rd Hour of TODAY co-anchor Craig Melvin and Emmy Award–winning sportscaster and journalist Lindsay Czarniak, the first matchup of the annual event featured Taylor Fritz and Matteo Berrettini facing off in Match 1, with Matteo Berrettini crowned the winner. The competition continued as Serena Williams and Caroline Wozniacki battled on the pickleball court in Match 2, with Serena Williams taking home the trophy.

This year’s event, which time and time again proves to be one of the most coveted invites of the US Open season, was presented in partnership with Bacardi, Tattinger, and Electrolit.

Image credit: Ryan Northrop