Photo booths have become a common feature at modern events because they give guests a way to interact, laugh, and create memories that go beyond traditional photography. While cameras and props matter, the backdrop often determines how visually striking those moments turn out. A well designed backdrop shapes the mood of the photos, reinforces the event theme, and influences how people engage with the booth. This is why choosing the right backdrop idea requires more than picking something colorful. It involves understanding the event’s purpose, the audience, and how visual elements come together. Use Textures and Layers for Visual Depth Flat backdrops can sometimes feel uninspired, especially in environments where guests expect something visually engaging. On the other hand, adding texture and layers introduces depth, making photos look more dynamic and less staged. Materials such as fabric drapes , wood panels, or even greenery walls can create a sense of dimension, because these elements interact with lighting in interesting ways, producing highlights and shadows that add character to each photo. Aside from this, layering different materials also allows designers to combine styles, such as pairing soft fabrics with structured elements or mixing natural textures with modern finishes. When guests step in front of a textured backdrop, the photos often feel more immersive because the background contributes to the overall composition rather than just sitting behind it. Incorporate Interactive Elements Another creative direction is to turn the backdrop into an interactive feature rather than a static display. Guests are more likely to engage with a photo booth when they can touch, move, or personalize parts of the setup. Interactive backdrop designs include movable panels, writable surfaces, hanging props, and digital displays that respond to movement. These features encourage guests to experiment, which leads to more natural expressions and spontaneous moments. For example, a backdrop with flip panels that change messages or colors allows guests to customize their photos. Similarly, a chalkboard wall invites people to write personal notes or draw designs, making each image unique. This level of interaction transforms the photo booth from a simple station into an activity that guests actively participate in throughout the event. Match Backdrops to Event Themes One of the most effective ways to create a memorable photo booth experience is to align the backdrop with the event theme. Whether it is a wedding, corporate gathering, birthday celebration, or product launch, consistency in design helps everything feel intentional rather than random. When planners explore options through vendors like Ish photo booth rentals , they often notice how different backdrop styles are used to complement specific event moods rather than dominate them.  For example, a formal wedding might feature soft drapery, floral arrangements, or neutral toned textures, while a corporate event might lean toward clean branding elements or modern geometric patterns. A well matched backdrop quietly supports the event’s identity, making photos feel cohesive when shared across social media or printed as keepsakes. However, backdrops that are too busy or poorly positioned can distract from the people in the photo. Endnote  Photo booth backdrops are no longer just decorative features; they are part of the overall experience that guests remember long after the event ends. Therefore, a thoughtfully designed backdrop encourages participation, enhances visual storytelling, and creates images that people are proud to share. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Freepik

Airlines are increasing enforcement of onboard entertainment policies as spring travel begins. Recent reports indicate that carriers may refuse service to passengers who do not use headphones for their audio or video content during flights. To help travelers stay compliant while maintaining high quality sound, Bowers & Wilkins provides several options for different travel needs. For long haul flights, the Px7 S3 over-ear headphones offer a noise canceling solution. These headphones feature professional craftsmanship and are available in colors like Anthracite Black and Indigo Blue. Travelers seeking a higher tier of performance can choose the Px8 S2 , which uses Nappa leather and aluminum to prioritize both comfort and audio clarity. Passengers preferring a more compact option for shorter trips or transit can utilize the Pi8 earbuds. These in ear models provide elevated sound in a pocket sized design, suitable for those moving between different locations or events. As these new airline regulations take effect, choosing the right audio equipment ensures that passengers can enjoy their media without interrupting others. For more information, visit: www.bowerswilkins.com/en-us . By ML Staff. Photos/Bowers & Wilkins.

The LALO Tequila Clubhouse at The Shelborne was the undisputed epicenter of Miami Beach style this past Monday, March 16th. As the city geared up for the excitement of the Miami Open, this invite-only gathering set a high bar for the week ahead, blending the intensity of professional sports with the effortless cool of South Beach. With stunning ocean views as the backdrop, the evening served as a high-voltage celebration of tennis culture, bringing together a vibrant mix of top-tier athletes, VIPs, and cultural tastemakers. The night was anchored by LALO athletes Amanda Anisimova and Zizou Bergs, who swapped their competitive focus for a night of hosting duties. Their presence, alongside a crowd of familiar faces including models Anesia Gordon, Deja Lighty, and Andrea Preti, as well as tennis influencers like Madison Appel and Ben Johnson, created an electric atmosphere from the moment the doors opened. The room was buzzing with candid player moments and high-energy conversations, making it clear that the Clubhouse was the place to be for those looking to kick off the tournament in style. Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed a steady flow of ice-cold LALO Tequila cocktails and a curated menu of elevated bites. The energy remained high from start to finish, with the party carrying well into the night as the crowd celebrated the intersection of sport and luxury. From the premium spirits to the star-studded guest list, the event successfully captured the "pure" spirit of the brand and the high-stakes excitement of the Miami tennis season. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of LALO Tequila Clubhouse.

Fire Up Brickell is set to host an energetic convergence of fitness and music with the Decades HIIT Workout , an immersive indoor fitness experience. This high-energy gathering, featuring a full-body workout and a live DJ set, will take place on Sunday, April 19, 2026. Travel Through the Decades The event offers a high-energy workout where every round is powered by the greatest hits from the 80s, 90s, 2000s, 2010s, and 2020s. From disco vibes to pop anthems, participants will push their limits in a 45-minute HIIT and abs class led by head coach Romi (@rominufit). What to Expect The vibrant atmosphere will feature fire beats from a live set by DJ Tarra, keeping the energy high as attendees sweat, move, and dance. The session will be held indoors with the air conditioning on full blast, providing a cool escape from the Miami heat. Participants will also enjoy exclusive gifts and raffles. Event Essentials Date & Time:  Sunday, April 19, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Location:  W Miami, 15th Floor. Price:  Free. Important Note:  Attendees must bring a small towel and a water bottle. Reserve here! W Miami is located at 485 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131. By ML Staff. Photos: W Miami.

Each year, the Miami Open  draws the world’s top players to South Florida, and this season, Miami Living goes beyond the baseline. As part of our coverage, we bring you conversations with leading ATP and WTA players, sharing their thoughts on competing in Miami, navigating the hard-court swing, and what sets this tournament apart. Founded in 1985, the Miami Open is a key stop on both the ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 tours. Held at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, the two-week event brings men and women together on one stage — and in our interviews, players open up about preparation, pressure, life on tour, and the energy of playing in Miami, offering a closer look at the people behind the rankings. EXCLUsive interVIEWs Alex de Minaur Amanda Anisimova Ben Shelton Coco Gauff Flavio Cobolli Frances Tiafoe Jakub Menšík Jannik Sinner Karen Khachanov Paula Badosa Tatjana Maria Taylor Fritz Oh, be sure to read our special Miami Open Guide : Tickets, Schedule & More ! By Markin Abras. Photo/Miami Open. Top gif/Soransmart

Miami Living spoke with tennis pro Jakub Menšík as he reflected on his rapid rise in professional tennis, from his early beginnings in the Czech Republic to competing on the sport’s biggest stages. BY MARKIN ABRAS | PHOTOS JAKUB MENSIK/INSTAGRAM Jakub Menšík  was born in Prostějov, Czech Republic, a city long associated with elite tennis development. He picked up a racket as a child and progressed quickly through the national system. In 2022, he reached the final of the Australian Open  boys’ singles, a result that placed him among the top juniors in the world. Turning professional soon after, he leaned on the steady presence of his family, who continue to support him throughout the season. Away from competition, he keeps his routine simple and values time with friends and loved ones. As his schedule expanded to the ATP Tour, Menšík began learning how to adapt to different environments. When asked about the unique challenge of competing in South Florida, he explained it in straightforward terms. “Yeah. Obviously, the conditions at the Miami tournament are super tough and, of course, different from other tournaments. But basically, at every tournament we’re playing in different conditions, so we always need a little adjustment everywhere,” he said. For him, the key starts with managing the heat and humidity. “It depends on how many degrees it is, but in that humidity the most important thing is the drinking regime, just to stay hydrated. And then there are small details and adjustments, maybe a little bit stronger tension on my rackets and other things to protect me from sweating a lot, you know, powders and many, many things. Like I’m saying, there are plenty of details.” Those adjustments have become part of his development at the highest level. In 2023, Menšík reached the third round of the US Open  as a qualifier, earning attention with composed performances against established players. In early 2024, he advanced to his first ATP final at the Qatar Open  in Doha, finishing runner up and marking a significant breakthrough. He also reached the third round of the Australian Open  in 2024, confirming his ability to compete consistently in Grand Slam events. Managing energy across a long season is another lesson he has learned quickly. He described his approach to switching off during tournaments. “Like I said, I love to sleep. So basically, good sleep is very important. Really good rest, and not to socialize that much. Sometimes I just want to be by myself in the room, maybe watch a good movie or go for a walk,” he said. When he is at home, the focus shifts. “Of course, when I’m off tournaments, I like to spend time with my family, my friends, and my girlfriend. Overall, when I’m really off the court, I try to do something else than just tennis, something not around tennis. It can be easy, basic things, you know, but it really makes me happy and makes me feel like I’m recharging. It’s kind of relaxing.” At the Miami Open , his best result came in 2025, when he delivered one of the biggest breakthroughs of his young career. He reached his first Masters 1000 final. In the championship match at Hard Rock Stadium in Florida, Menšík stunned his childhood idol Novak Djokovic  to claim his first ATP Tour title. Jakub Menšík's stats: Age: 20 (1 September 2005) Birth place: Prostějov, Czech Republic Career high: World No. 16 Singles titles: 2 Miami Open Best: Champion in 2025 Prize Money: US$ 4,962,566 www.instagram.com/mensik.jakub OTHER MIAMI LIVING INTERVIEWS Alex de Minaur Amanda Anisimova Ben Shelton Coco Gauff Frances Tiafoe Jakub Menšík Jannik Sinner Karen Khachanov Paula Badosa Tatjana Maria Taylor Fritz Read our Miami Open Guide: Tickets, Schedule & More Photos courtesy of Jakub Menšík/Instagram.

Miami Living spoke with Frances Tiafoe during the Miami Open, where the American star reflected on his journey from Maryland to the world stage, his connection to Miami, and the routines that keep him grounded on and off the court. BY MARKIN ABRAS | PHOTOS FRANCES TIAFOE /INSTAGRAM Frances Tiafoe  turned professional in 2015, but his relationship with tennis began long before that at the Junior Tennis Champions Center in Maryland. His father, who emigrated from Sierra Leone, worked at the facility as a custodian and later became a coach, which allowed Tiafoe and his twin brother Franklin Tiafoe  to spend countless hours around the game. That early exposure shaped both his work ethic and his love for the sport. As a junior, he made a major statement by reaching the final of the Junior French Open  in 2013, a result that put him firmly on the radar and hinted at what was to come.  When asked what comes to mind when he thinks of Miami, Tiafoe does not immediately go to tennis. “When I think of Miami, I think of LeBron,” he says, referencing LeBron James  and the Miami Heat  era. “I think about those years, that’s what I think about with Miami.” The city’s conditions, however, are impossible to ignore once he steps on court. Miami’s heat, humidity, and fast surfaces demand adjustments that fans rarely see. “A ton of hydration,” he explains. “A lot of nights going to bed early. You’ve got to get ready to play in the heat. Tough conditions, but obviously fun conditions. Great atmosphere and one of the best events in the world.” Those routines extend off the court as well, especially when it comes to recovery. Sleep is a priority during tournaments, and Tiafoe keeps it simple. “Putting the phone down,” he says. “A lot of us are so connected to it, we can’t really come up for air. Once you let it go, you sleep way better.” He also leans into quieter habits. Reading helps him slow things down, and staying mentally balanced is just as important as physical preparation. When it comes to music, he laughs at what might surprise fans. “I’m a huge R&B listener. I don’t listen to that much rap anymore. Old-school rap I used to love, but I’m a big R&B guy. Shout out Kehlani.” Tiafoe’s career has been defined by steady progress and timely breakthroughs. He won his first ATP title at the Delray Beach Open  in 2018 and followed that with additional titles that confirmed his place among the top American players. His biggest moment came at the US Open  in 2022, where he reached the semifinals and became the first American man to do so since 2006. Off the court, he prefers to keep things normal. “Be with the homies,” he says. “Follow other sports, do other things. Not really about tennis. Just being normal, taking it easy, and getting relaxed.” At the Miami Open , Tiafoe has delivered some of his most memorable performances. His best result came in 2019, when he reached the quarterfinals. Frances Tiafoe's stats: Age: 28 (January 20, 1998) Birth place: Hyattsville, Maryland Career high: World No. 10 Singles titles: 3 Miami Open Best: Quarterfinals in 2019 Prize Money: US$15,596,017 www.instagram.com/bigfoe1998 OTHER MIAMI LIVING INTERVIEWS Alex de Minaur Amanda Anisimova Ben Shelton Coco Gauff Flavio Cobolli Frances Tiafoe Jakub Menšík Jannik Sinner Karen Khachanov Paula Badosa Tatjana Maria Taylor Fritz Read our Miami Open Guide: Tickets, Schedule & More Photos courtesy of Frances Tiafoe Jr./Instagram.

As part of Miami Living’ s annual tennis interview series, we spoke with Flavio Cobolli , one of Italy’s rising talents on the ATP Tour, about his journey from Florence to the professional circuit, the influence of his father and childhood idol Novak Djokovic, and the mindset behind his recent breakthrough titles in Bucharest, Hamburg, and Acapulco. Now firmly established inside the Top 20, Cobolli reflects on his development, life on tour, and what continues to drive him as he competes on some of the sport’s biggest stages. BY MARKIN ABRAS | PHOTOS FLAVIO COBOLLI/INSTAGRAM Flavio Cobolli  was born on May 6, 2002, in Florence, Italy, and turned professional in 2020 after developing through the Italian tennis system. Before focusing fully on tennis, he also played youth football with AS Roma, showing an early connection to competitive sport. His development was closely tied to his family, especially his father Stefano Cobolli , a former player and coach. Reflecting on that influence, Cobolli says, "The decision to play tennis came naturally and independently, but of course having my father around the sport was a big inspiration. He taught me a lot, not only about tennis on the court but also about attitude and life off the court."  Growing up, he also looked up to Novak Djokovic , adding, "Growing up I always admired his competitiveness and his style of play. The way he fights for every point and never gives up is something that really inspired me. I always loved watching how complete his game is." His early years on tour were built through Challenger events and gradual progress on the ATP Tour, leading him into the Top 100. During that stretch, he focused on improving specific parts of his game, noting, "I would say my serve. I’ve been working a lot on it and it has improved a lot over the past year."  Away from matches, he points to a lesser-seen side of the circuit, explaining, "People see us competing on court, but inside the locker room there’s almost a second life between players. Everyone is actually very different once you get to know them off the court." Managing the demands of constant travel is another challenge, and he says, "My routine. Having a routine helps me stay focused and balanced even when we travel a lot during the season."  In 2025, he secured his first ATP title at Romanian Open Bucharest , followed by a second title at Hamburg Open , an ATP 500 event, where he defeated Andrey Rublev in the final. Cobolli continued his progress in 2026 by winning the Mexican Open Acapulco , defeating Frances Tiafoe in the final to claim his first ATP hard-court title and move into the Top 20. Speaking about Miami Open , he says, "Miami is amazing. It has incredible energy and great vibes. It’s a place that really inspires me and makes the whole tournament feel special." He also addresses the conditions, noting, "The most important thing is to stay well hydrated and manage your energy. I try to drink a lot and avoid staying too long under the sun before matches so I can keep fresh for the court." His best result at the Miami Open  came in 2024, when he reached the second round. Flavio Cobolli stats Age: 23 (May 6, 2002) Birth Place: Florence, Italy Career High: No. 26 (2025) Singles Titles: 2 Miami Open Best: Second Round in 2024 Prize Money: US$5,391,145 Instagram: www.instagram.com/flavio_cobbo OTHER MIAMI LIVING INTERVIEWS Alex de Minaur Amanda Anisimova Ben Shelton Coco Gauff Flavio Cobolli Frances Tiafoe Jakub Menšík Jannik Sinner Karen Khachanov Paula Badosa Tatjana Maria Taylor Fritz Read our Miami Open Guide: Tickets, Schedule & More Photos courtesy of Flavio Cobolli/Instagram.

For Ben Shelton, Miami is not just another stop on the tour: it feels like home. Speaking with Ben Shelton  at the Miami Open, we discussed how his Florida upbringing informs the way he competes here, from managing the heat and humidity to maintaining a relaxed, grounded approach as his career continues to accelerate. BY MARKIN ABRAS | PHOTOS BEN SHELTON/INSTAGRAM Ben Shelton  turned professional in 2022 after winning the NCAA singles title at the University of Florida , a decision that quickly proved justified. The left-hander grew up immersed in tennis. His father, Bryan Shelton , is a former professional player and respected college coach who shaped his early development and competitive mindset. Raised in Florida, Shelton built his identity around a powerful serve, explosive movement, and a fearless approach that translated smoothly to the ATP Tour. That Florida background directly influences how he feels about competing in Miami. When asked what comes to mind when he thinks about the city, he answers plainly, “When I think of Miami, obviously I’m from Florida, so I think of home, I think of sunshine. Miami is kind of the epitome of Florida.” It is a reflection of comfort and familiarity rather than spectacle. The setting is not foreign to him. It feels personal. The conditions at the Miami Open  are demanding, with heat, humidity, and quick courts. Shelton approaches it with practical adjustments. “I think string tension, how much you’re drinking, hydrating, you know, the type of drink supplements that you might be taking is all something that’s adjusted from week to week. You know, putting on sunscreens. There’s a lot of things that are important that you kind of know if you’ve lived in Florida for a long time.” It is a detailed answer that reflects lived experience rather than theory. His rise on tour came quickly. In 2023, he reached the quarterfinals of the Australian Open  in just his second Grand Slam main draw appearance. Later that year, he advanced to the semifinals of the US Open , becoming the youngest American man to reach that stage in New York since Andy Roddick. He secured his first ATP title at the Japan Open  in 2023 and added a second in 2024 at the U.S. Men's Clay Court Championship , confirming his ability to contend across surfaces. Away from match courts and rankings, Shelton keeps his routines uncomplicated. On sleep during tournaments, he says, “I don’t really have habits or routines for sleep. I’m not usually someone who has a lot of issues falling asleep. I can fall asleep anywhere, anytime, but if I am jet lagged pretty bad, I’ll use melatonin.” It is consistent with the relaxed confidence he shows publicly. When asked what might surprise fans, he pauses and responds honestly, “Something about me that might surprise fans? I feel like I’m an open book. I feel like people know, you know, I don’t really hide any parts of myself, but. I don’t think I have anything really.” There is no attempt to manufacture intrigue. His personality is direct and accessible. Off the court, recovery is simple. “Off the court to relax and recharge. I’d probably say my favorite thing is watching movies. I like watching movies. TV shows sometimes too, but mostly movies. And I like hanging out with my girlfriend.” The answer is straightforward and grounded, consistent with the way he presents himself. At the Miami Open , Shelton has shown himself as a talented youngster with great potential, ready to shine in yet another edition of the tournament. His third round campaign at the 2024 edition should help pave a path to glory in the not-too-distant future. Ben Shelton's stats: Age: 23 (October 9, 2002) Birth place: Atlanta, Georgia Career high: World No. 5 Singles titles: 3 Miami Open Best: 3rd Round in 2024 Prize Money: US$ 11,197,426 www.instagram.com/benshelton OTHER MIAMI LIVING INTERVIEWS Alex de Minaur Amanda Anisimova Ben Shelton Coco Gauff Flavio Cobolli Frances Tiafoe Jakub Menšík Jannik Sinner Karen Khachanov Paula Badosa Tatjana Maria Taylor Fritz Read our Miami Open Guide: Tickets, Schedule & More Photos courtesy of Ben Shelton/Instagram.

For Amanda Anisimova, the Miami Open feels like a homecoming. A Miami Beach resident  you may spot walking the streets of South Beach during the off-season, she returns to the tournament with a sense of ease that goes beyond the court. As part of Miami Living’s  annual tennis interview series, we spoke with Amanda Anisimova  about balancing life and competition, continuing her education, and the small routines that help her manage the unique demands of playing at home at the Miami Open. BY MARKIN ABRAS | PHOTOS AMANDA ANISIMOVA/INSTAGRAM Amanda Anisimova was born in Freehold Township, New Jersey, to Russian parents who later moved the family to Florida to support her tennis development. She started playing tennis as a child alongside her older sister, Maria, and was coached primarily by her father, Konstantin Anisimov, who helped guide her early progress. Her talent was clear at the junior level, where she won the girls’ singles title at the US Open  in 2017. She turned professional in 2016 and quickly adapted to the physical and mental demands of the tour. Away from competition, Anisimova has also focused on her education and personal growth. She once shared that balancing tennis and academics became especially meaningful during her time away from the tour. “I attended college in person during my break from tennis,” Amanda said. “I have a Business major that I’ve been studying since 2020, and I’m also doing a minor in Psychology.” Off the court, she values simple ways to reset. “Going to the beach and spending time with people I love is the best way to recharge. Sometimes something fun like jet skiing too.” Her recovery habits during tournaments are also practical and disciplined. She explained that sleep is a priority, adding, “I take a magnesium supplement before bed, and sometimes a hot bath helps. I also try not to scroll too much on my phone.” Her breakthrough moment came in 2019 when she reached the semifinals of the French Open  at just 17 years old, defeating defending champion Simona Halep  along the way. That same year, she won her first WTA title at the Copa Colsanitas  in Bogotá. She continued to build her resume with titles at the Melbourne Summer Set 2  in 2022 and the Qatar TotalEnergies Open  in 2024, her first WTA 1000 title. She has consistently worked to refine her game and believes improvement is ongoing. “There’s always room to improve every part of my game,” Amanda said. “We’re always working on things like my serve and movement, and trying to get better even at my strengths.” The conditions in Miami present a different kind of test, especially with the heat and humidity. Anisimova approaches those challenges with small adjustments that often go unnoticed. “Putting ice in my drinks and pouring water over my towels helps on really hot days,” she said. Amanda Anisimova's stats: Age: 24 (31 August 2001) Birth place: Freehold Township, New Jersey, USA Career high: World No. 3 Single titles: 4 Miami Open Best: 4th Round in 2025 Prize Money: US$ 12,892,510 www.instagram.com/amandaanisimova OTHER MIAMI LIVING INTERVIEWS Alex de Minaur Amanda Anisimova Ben Shelton Coco Gauff Flavio Cobolli Frances Tiafoe Jakub Menšík Jannik Sinner Karen Khachanov Paula Badosa Tatjana Maria Taylor Fritz Read our Miami Open Guide: Tickets, Schedule & More Photos courtesy of Amanda Anisimova/Instagram.

As part of Miami Living’s  annual tennis interview series, we caught up with Alex de Minaur  during the Miami Open to talk about heritage, routine, and the small adjustments that make a big difference in South Florida’s demanding conditions. BY MARKIN ABRAS | PHOTOS ALEX DE MINAUR /INSTAGRAM Alex de Minaur  was born in Sydney  to a Uruguayan father and a Spanish mother, a background that shaped both his identity and his competitive edge. He turned professional in 2015 after a strong junior career that included a runner up finish at the 2016 Australian Open  boys’ singles. His speed and court coverage quickly became trademarks. By 2018, he had already reached ATP finals in Sydney  and Washington , confirming his place among Australia’s rising players. His first ATP title came in 2019 at the Sydney International . That same season, he added trophies in Atlanta  and Zhuhai . He went on to win Antwerp  in 2020, Eastbourne  in 2021, and a second Atlanta  title in 2022. In 2023, he captured the ATP 500 title in Acapulco  and the biggest trophy of his career at the Canadian Open  in Toronto , an ATP Masters 1000 event. In 2024, he defended his Acapulco  crown and won the ATP 500 event in Rotterdam , bringing his total to ten ATP singles titles. That multicultural background becomes especially visible in South Florida. When asked what he thinks of when Miami comes to mind, De Minaur answers directly: “It’s loud. It’s electric. Very Hispanic. It’s one of the few tournaments where I get to use my Spanish, which is nice. And yeah, it’s always a lot of fun.” He later adds something that often surprises fans: “I’ve got a lot of Spanish heritage, and a little bit of South American heritage as well, with my dad being from Uruguay.” Competing at the Miami Open requires adjustments that may not be obvious from the stands. “You’ve got to be really on top of your hydration,” he explains. “The humidity is pretty brutal out there. And just make sure you conserve as much energy as you can while you’re off the court, so you’re able to compete for a long time.” Managing recovery is part of that discipline. “I try to stick to a routine,” he says. “Get to bed at the same time, not be on your phone or any technology too close to going to sleep. And making sure you’ve had enough time to digest your food before bed as well.” Away from competition, his routine shifts but remains simple. “I like driving classic cars. I like the ocean. I like finding coffee shops. I just enjoy exploring the city I’m in.” In Miami, that balance between intensity and routine has produced steady results. His best run at the tournament came in 2022, when he reached the quarterfinals. Alex de Minaur stats: Age: 27 (February 17, 1999) Birth Place: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia Career High: No. 6 (July 15, 2024) Singles Titles: 10 Miami Open Best: Fourth Round in 2024 and 2025 Prize Money: US $23,424,695 www.instagram.com/alexdeminaur OTHER MIAMI LIVING INTERVIEWS Alex de Minaur Amanda Anisimova Ben Shelton Coco Gauff Flavio Cobolli Frances Tiafoe Jakub Menšík Jannik Sinner Karen Khachanov Paula Badosa Tatjana Maria Taylor Fritz Read our Miami Open Guide: Tickets, Schedule & More Photos courtesy of Alex de Minaur/Instagram.

We caught up with Taylor Fritz  in Miami as part of Miami Living’s tennis interview series , where the tournament experience feels less transient and more personal. With a home base in the city, Fritz discusses how familiarity with the setting, especially the nuances of center court, shapes his preparation, routines, and mindset as one of the most consistent American players on tour. BY MARKIN ABRAS | PHOTOS TAYLOR FRITZ/INSTAGRAM Taylor Fritz  turned professional in 2015 and immediately delivered on his junior promise. That same year, he won the boys’ singles title at the US Open , confirming his status as one of the top American prospects. In early 2016, at 18, he reached his first ATP final in Memphis, becoming the youngest American man to reach an ATP final since Michael Chang. Raised in Rancho Santa Fe, California, Fritz grew up in a tennis household. His mother, Kathy May, was a top-10 player, and his father, Guy Fritz, is a coach. The sport was not an experiment. It was part of daily life. When the tour heads to South Florida for the Miami Open , the setting feels different for him. Asked what comes to mind when he thinks about Miami, his answer is immediate and personal. “Honestly, the first thing I think of is just my place, just being at my place in Miami.” In a sport built on constant travel, that sense of having a base matters. Miami also demands technical adjustments that fans may not notice. Fritz is clear about one priority. “I think a big thing for me in Miami is trying to get as much time on the center court as possible,” he says. “For me, I’ve always found that center court plays pretty different from the other courts.” He explains that many of the outside courts are permanent, while center court is laid down each year. “I always find that it plays quite differently from the other courts.” Because of his ranking, he often expects to play in the main stadium. “If I get an idea that I’m going to be playing my matches on center court, which normally I have been, which is good, that I’m in the position I’m in, because I can kind of assume that I’m going to be playing on center court, I try to get as much time as possible on it because I find the conditions there can play different from the other courts.” For him, preparation in Miami is specific and deliberate. His first ATP title came at Eastbourne International  in 2019. That same season, he won the Atlanta Open . The defining moment of his career so far came in 2022, when he captured the BNP Paribas Open  at Indian Wells, defeating Rafael Nadal in the final to win his first ATP Masters 1000 title. He later added titles in Tokyo  in 2022, Delray Beach  in 2023, and further grass-court success in Eastbourne  in 2022 and 2024. He has also been a regular representative for the United States in Davis Cup competition and a consistent top-ranked American on tour. Tournament life also depends on rest, even if his routine is not perfect. Fritz is honest about it. “I have a lot of really bad sleep habits, to be honest, but it’s just stuff I’ve done my entire life,” he admits. “I hydrate a ton before bed. I take some sleep melatonin gummies.” Temperature matters to him. “I like it really cold.” He even gives credit to his setup at home. “I gotta shout out my Eight Sleep. I have it in Miami because I got my place there. So that always helps a lot too.” Then comes what he calls his worst habit. “The worst habit that I do is I like to put on a show that’s not super exciting, like a cartoon or an anime. I’ve got an AirPod in one ear and I just watch it and I go to sleep. I always go to sleep watching something on my iPad.” It is not textbook sports science, but it is consistent. Asked what might surprise fans about him, he pauses. “I’m not sure. This question always stumps me. I don’t know. I really don’t know what would surprise people.” The hesitation feels genuine. Off the court, the routine stays simple. “I like to spend time with friends, family, play video games. Honestly, I sleep a lot. I golf sometimes.” There is no elaborate escape plan. Just downtime. At the Miami Open , Fritz’s best result came in 2025, when he reached the semifinals. Taylor Fritz stats: Age: 28 (28 October 1997) Birth place: Rancho Santa Fe, California Career high: World No. 4 Singles titles: 10 Miami Open Best: Semifinals in 2025 Prize Money: $29,533,384 www.instagram.com/taylor_fritz OTHER MIAMI LIVING INTERVIEWS Alex de Minaur Amanda Anisimova Ben Shelton Coco Gauff Flavio Cobolli Frances Tiafoe Jakub Menšík Jannik Sinner Karen Khachanov Paula Badosa Tatjana Maria Taylor Fritz Read our Miami Open Guide: Tickets, Schedule & More By ML Staff. Photos courtesy of Taylor Fritz/Instagram.