Tennis fans in New Jersey are preparing for an unforgettable evening as the inaugural “A racquet at the rock” takes place at the Prudential Center in Newark on December 7, 2025. The event will feature elite professionals, rising juniors, and a tribute to one of the sport’s greatest pioneers, Althea Gibson.
Singles showdowns headline the event
The spotlight will shine on two best-of-three singles matches. On the women’s side, Amanda Anisimova, a 2025 Wimbledon and U.S. Open finalist, will face Jessica Pegula, the 2024 U.S. Open finalist. For Anisimova, the match carries special meaning as she returns to her home state.
“It’s a special feeling to return to the place where my tennis dreams first began,” said Amanda Anisimova. “I am looking forward to playing against one of the best players in the world and having the opportunity to do so in my original home state of New Jersey. It will be an incredible celebration of tennis.”
On the men’s side, six-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz will take on Frances Tiafoe, a two-time U.S. Open semifinalist. Their rivalry promises a thrilling contest, with both players known for their flair and competitiveness.
“It is always a lot of fun to be on the court with Frances—we love to compete against each other, and I can’t wait to put on a great show for the fans in Newark,” said Carlos Alcaraz. “To play again in the metropolitan area with all the amazing fans, it’s something special. They bring such unique energy, and they love tennis so much. …It will be a special night of great tennis.”
Mixed doubles and junior showcase
Adding to the excitement, a mixed doubles exhibition will feature all four headliners together, offering fans a lighter, entertaining match alongside the high-stakes singles contests.
Earlier in the day, the junior showcase will highlight future stars. East Brunswick’s Ronit Karki, a Stanford commit for 2026 and former Wimbledon Junior finalist, will face New York’s Jack Kennedy, a Roland Garros junior finalist.
“I’m super excited to play on such a big stage at Prudential Center in my home state of New Jersey,” said Ronit Karki.
Honoring Althea Gibson’s legacy
The event will also pay tribute to Althea Gibson, the trailblazing champion who became the first African American to win a Grand Slam title. Gibson’s legacy will be honored with commemorative plaques presented to all players, and her impact will be highlighted throughout the evening. Newark’s Branch Brook Park already features a bronze statue in her honor, alongside the Althea Gibson Tennis Center, which continues to inspire young athletes.
A celebration of tennis past, present, and future
“A racquet at the rock” is more than just an exhibition. It is a celebration of tennis history, a showcase of current stars, and a platform for juniors aspiring to reach the sport’s highest levels. With tickets in high demand and anticipation building, the Prudential Center is set to welcome tennis in a new chapter of its storied venue history.
Frances Tiafoe in 2025
Currently ranked no.30, Tiafoe played his last match on the 3rd of October when he lost to world no.103 Yannick Hanfmann 6-7(9) 6-2 6-1 in the 2nd round in Shanghai (draw).
This season the American has managed to achieve a compiled 26-23 win-loss record. Frances Tiafoe’s most significant result of the current year was reaching the final in Houston.
He is also scheduled to play in Brisbane (Brisbane International). The main draw will start on the 29th of December.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2025
Now ranked no.1, Carlos played his last match on the 16th of November when he capitulated to world no.2 Jannik Sinner 7-6(4) 7-5 in the final in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
During this season the Spaniard has managed to achieve a 71-9 record. Alcaraz conquered 8 titles in 2025 in Rotterdam, Monte-Carlo, Rome, French Open, London, Cincinnati, U.S. Open and Tokyo. Carlos was the runner-up in Barcelona, Wimbledon and the Nitto ATP Finals.
Frances Tiafoe and Carlos Alcaraz clashed against each other 3 times. Their actual head to head record is 2-1 for Alcaraz.