Stoke Park threw open its doors last week for the return of Boodles Tennis.

The country club, which is currently closed, hosted the 19th edition of the event after a four-year hiatus.

The five-day fesitval, where the world's top tennis stars fine-tune their skills ahead of Wimbledon, proved to be bigger and better than ever before.

On Saturday, July 1, the park came alive with the thrill of tennis as international stars like Stefanos Tsitsipas and Andrey Rublev graced the courts.

Over the course of the week, they were joined by an array of celebrities including Lady Penny Lancaster Stewart, Kirsty Gallagher, Jay Blades, and beloved stars from Strictly Come Dancing, Fleur East, Ellie Simmonds, Molly Rainford, and Tyler West. The English summer garden party atmosphere added to the charm and elegance of the occasion.

The return of The Boodles to Stoke Park is particularly significant as the club undergoes a period of restoration and future planning. The new custodians have reaffirmed their commitment to the event by signing a ten-year extension with ACE Group, ensuring the tournament's long-term presence at the venue.

Speaking ahead of the event, PJ Singh, Stoke Park's CFO and Projects Director, expressed his delight at hosting The Boodles in 2023, saying: "After a few years of not being able to host due to the pandemic and despite the ongoing restoration, it brings us immense joy to welcome The Boodles back and look forward to seeing you all next summer!"

Patricio Apey, ACE Group Founder and creator of The Boodles Tennis, echoed this sentiment, expressing his happiness at returning to Stoke Park.

The players themselves were eager to step onto the grass courts of Stoke Park once again. Speaking prior the event, World No. 5 Stefanos Tsitsipas said: "It is a great preparation for Wimbledon. My best results at Wimbledon were achieved when I prepared at The Boodles Tennis. The club is amazing and one of the nicest venues in the world."

Looking ahead, tennis enthusiasts can mark their calendars for the 20th anniversary of The Boodles, set to take place from June 25 to 29, 2024.