President Dr. Robert Fisher and the United States Tennis Association announced Thursday morning that Belmont University will host the 2018 Davis Cup World Group Quarterfinal between the U.S. and Belgium in the Curb Event Center on April 6-8.
Belmont University graduate J. Wayne Richmond, USTA management director of major events, played a key role in bringing this historic international tennis tournament to Nashville and Belmont.
When he heard of the possibility of the Davis Cup coming back the U.S., Richmond called Belmont men’s basketball coach Rick Byrd and asked, “can we fit that court in that stadium?”
The answer, it seems, was a resounding yes.
The influence and drive of Fisher and Byrd helped Belmont win the opportunity to host the tournament.
Fisher promised the USTA it will not be let down.
“We want to make sure when you leave here, you want to come back,” said Fisher.
Nashville Sports Council president and CEO Scott Ramsey thanked the city and the mayor’s office for their support. He expressed his excitement about bringing this prestigious event Nashville and making the city proud.
In addition to the tournament, the USTA wants to host tennis clinics for kids before the doubles match on April 7, Fisher said.
“We want to have some clinics and teaching opportunity, so there will be a chance for students to get involved and volunteer and be apart of that, and once those opportunities become clear, that should lead to other opportunities,” he said.
Tickets go on sale to the public on Feb. 23. There are no plans for student discounted tickets.
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This article written by Steven Boero. Photo courtesy of the Belmont Office of Communications