When women's tennis comes back to New Haven this August, it will have a new name: the Connecticut Open presented by United Technologies.
“The rebranding to the Connecticut Open broadens the overall appeal. It more accurately reflects the fact that fans and sponsors come from all over Connecticut and beyond,” said Tournament Director Anne Worcester.
It also represents Connecticut's investment in the tournament. Last year, the State bought the tournament to keep it in Connecticut.
“It's an important event in the state. We have annually $26 million in economic activity around the tournament. Each year, the tournament draws tens of thousands of spectators and volunteers from around the country. Many of whom eat at local restaurants and stay at local hotels and shop, I hope, at local businesses,” said Governor Dannel Malloy.
New Haven Mayor Toni Harp says the tournament also puts New Haven on the map.
“The timing of this tournament is key as it plays out just ahead of the US Open in New York City. It has a huge benefit to have these events mentioned in the same breath,” said Mayor Toni Harp.
The Connecticut Open will also being doing its part to benefit others, because it just became a not-for-profit organization. It is pairing up with its new presenting sponsor, United Technologies, to make sure that it gives back to the community. On August 18, there will be a Military Appreciation night with discounted tickets. There will also be fundraising for the Smilow Cancer Hospital.
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“We'll also use the tournament's last day to pay tribute to our tens of thousands of employees and celebrate UTC Day on August 23,” said Charles Gill, UTC Senior Vice President and General Counsel.
Men’s tennis will also be returning to New Haven for the first-ever Connecticut Open Legends event on August 21 and August 22. James Blake, Andy Roddick and Jim Courier are expected to participate.
