LONDON, England - Even the rain could not dampen the spirits of those at this year's WTA Pre-Wimbledon Party presented by Dubai Duty Free.
The event, now in its 11th year, is one of the highlights of tennis' social calendar. This time Serena Williams, Garbiñe Muguruza, Ana Ivanovic and Caroline Wozniacki were joined by personalities from the world of sport, entertainment and fashion, including Thom Evans, Katie Piper and Tallia Storm.
There were also some younger faces braving the worst of the British weather, Elena Baltacha Academy starlet Tawana Senah walking the purple carpet alongside Judy Murray, and WTA Future Star Karman Thandi getting her first taste of life at tennis' top table.
Once again, wtatennis.com left no stone unturned in showcasing the best moments from The Roof Gardens, a live blog, galleries and videos complementing the usual smorgasbord of social media coverage, highlighted by the inaugural outing of Facebook Live.
A fleet of Jaguar XJL Autobiographies ensured the players travelled to the west London venue in style, and following a warm welcome from the devoted youngsters in the WTA Fanzone, Serena and company dazzled on the purple carpet.
Inside the party, players, media and guests enjoyed an eclectic menu dreamt up by The Roof Gardens' Head Chef Antonio Borg, who drew inspiration from the WTA tournaments from around the world; scallop ceviche, stir-fried Noodles, tomato and mascarpone risotto balls, lime marinated free range chicken tacos and, in a nod to the host nation, fish and chips.
The drinks list, populated by among others Stella Artois, Laurent Perrier, Pablo and La Poderosa and evian, was just as impressive, while new partner Häagen-Dazs catered for those with a sweeter tooth, previewing its new limited edition Strawberries & Cream ice cream.
"We're very excited to have hosted the WTA Pre-Wimbledon Party for the 11th year at the Roof Gardens with the support of Virgin and Dubai Duty Free. Both our partners continue to make the event an incredible success year after year as we celebrate the ever growing global reach of the WTA and the fantastic achievements of these inspirational women," said WTA CEO Steve Simon.
