LA QUINTA, Calif.—The Australian Open has the Kooyong Classic; Wimbledon has The Boodles; the US Open has the Stowe Mountain Lodge Classic. Tennis' major tournaments are preceded by events that offer the pros the chance to loosen up, on and off the court, in an atmosphere that emphasizes fun over forehands. They also offer fans the chance to see their heroes in a whole new way.
Both players and fans are looking forward to the big show on the horizon. But, over time, the kick-offs to the major tournaments have actually become pretty big shows themselves.
Enter Desert Smash, the lead-in to the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells. Back at La Quinta Resort for its 14th year, the charity-driven extravaganza includes celebrities aplenty and tour players to match. Serena Williams will host the iconic event, which will benefit The Yetunde Price Resource Center. She'll be joined at the picturesque venue by fellow former No. 1 Victoria Azarenka, fellow American Sam Querrey and fellow sure-fire Hall of Famers Bob and Mike Bryan.
Bob and Mike showed off their skills from the baseline and the net the day before Desert Smash—it's a beautiful sight, no matter where you look:
