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Here is something I have watched happen at least a dozen times at a Brickell brunch: a woman tugs at the side of her dress, shifts in her seat, crosses and uncrosses her arms, and eventually ties a jacket around her waist on a 91-degree day. The outfit looked right. The foundation underneath it did not. And the assumption most people make about why shapewear fails in South Florida is completely wrong. Image by DepositPhotos The myth that heat makes shapewear impossible Talk to anyone about wearing compression garments in a subtropical climate and you will hear the same thing within thirty seconds. "It's too hot." "You'll sweat through it." "That's a winter thing." I bought into this for years. I assumed that any garment adding a layer between my skin and a dress in July was a punishment I did not deserve. But the failure was never about temperature. It was about fabric composition. The shapewear most of us grew up seeing in our mothers' drawers was built from nylon-heavy blends with minimal moisture management. Wearing those in a Miami summer is, yes, genuinely miserable. But blaming shapewear as a category for the sins of one outdated fabric blend is like blaming all restaurants for a bad meal at an airport Chili's. Modern performance textiles have changed the equation. Microfiber blends with four-way stretch, moisture-wicking yarns, and open-knit ventilation zones exist now. They did not exist ten years ago, at least not at price points regular people could access. The conversation moved on. A lot of women's underwear drawers did not. What I actually got wrong (and what you might be getting wrong too) My personal mistake was subtler than just avoiding shapewear entirely. I was choosing pieces based on how they looked flat on a hanger or folded in a package. Smooth, pretty, promising. Then I would wear them under a linen midi dress to an outdoor dinner in Wynwood and spend the evening peeling fabric away from my lower back every time I stood up. The problem was that I was shopping for compression level and ignoring breathability, bonded edges, and where the seams actually sat on my body in motion. I was also ignoring something embarrassingly obvious: the humidity in South Florida is not the same as the humidity in New York or LA, where most shapewear brands test and photograph their products. When a brand shoots a campaign in a climate-controlled studio in Manhattan, they are not thinking about what happens when you walk two blocks from a parking garage to a restaurant on Lincoln Road in August. This matters because sweat changes how fabric grips skin. A garment that stays put in dry conditions can shift, roll, or bunch when moisture enters the equation. And in Miami, moisture is always in the equation. The silhouette question has a different answer here Miami dressing has its own grammar. Bodycon is not a trend here; it is a baseline. Cutouts, backless tops, high slits, and sheer panels show up at Tuesday lunches, not just Saturday nights. The gap between what women want to wear and what traditional shapewear allows them to wear has always been wider in this city than in most. A standard high-waisted shaper works fine under a structured cocktail dress with a defined waistline. But what about a ribbed knit midi that clings everywhere? Or a halter with a plunging back? Or one of those mesh-panel dresses that have been all over Sunset Harbour for the past two seasons? The traditional shapewear silhouette was designed for a covered-up outfit. South Florida wardrobes do not cooperate with that assumption. This is where the bodysuit format has quietly become the most practical foundation piece for the way women here actually dress. A single garment that runs from shoulder to hip, with no waistband to roll and no gap between bra and shaper, solves the specific layering problems that Miami outfits create. A well-constructed shape bodysuit  with a low back or adjustable straps can sit invisibly under the kinds of tops and dresses that dominate closets south of Fort Lauderdale. Compression is not the whole story I used to think the point of shapewear was maximum compression. Tighter meant better. Smoother meant more effective. I think a lot of women still operate under this assumption, and it leads to a specific kind of disappointment: you buy the firmest control garment you can find, wear it once, and never touch it again because you could not breathe through dinner. What I have learned, mostly through expensive trial and error, is that moderate compression with the right fabric weight does more real-world work than heavy compression with the wrong one. A lighter-weight piece that actually stays in place, wicks moisture, and moves with your body will look better under clothes than a heavy-duty garment that rides up, digs in, or creates new lines where the edges cut. The tummy control conversation is a good example. A panel that is too rigid across the midsection creates a visible demarcation line under anything fitted. You can literally see where the control zone ends and your body begins. A graduated compression panel, where the density shifts across zones rather than starting and stopping abruptly, produces a smoother transition. This is a construction detail, not a marketing phrase, and it is worth paying attention to when you are choosing what goes under a dress that leaves very little to the imagination. Color matching in a city where skin is always visible One of the most practical and least discussed aspects of foundation garments in Miami is shade range. When your arms, shoulders, chest, and legs are exposed for eight months of the year, the color of what sits underneath your clothes becomes a functional concern, not a cosmetic one. A nude that reads as nude on one skin tone reads as a visible beige stripe on another. Brands that offer four or five shades are doing the minimum. The ones that break their range into eight, ten, or more tones, with warm and cool undertones accounted for, are solving a real problem that affects how a garment performs visually under sheer or light fabrics. In a city as diverse as Miami, where the range of skin tones at any given restaurant table is genuinely wide, a limited shade offering is a design failure. The body confidence part is real, but it works differently than you think I want to be careful here because body confidence has become one of those phrases that gets used so often it starts to feel hollow. But there is something specific and measurable that happens when your base layer works properly: you stop thinking about it. You stop adjusting. You stop checking mirrors. You stop holding your breath or avoiding certain angles. That is not a transformation. It is the removal of a distraction. And in a city where social plans can stretch from a pool afternoon to a rooftop dinner to a late-night event in the Design District without a wardrobe change, the absence of that distraction is worth more than any single outfit. The women I know in Miami who seem most at ease in what they wear are not the ones with the most expensive closets. They are the ones who have figured out what goes on first. The foundation. The thing nobody sees. They got that part right, and everything on top of it benefits. Where this leaves the practical question If you are rebuilding your approach to what goes under your clothes in a warm climate, start with fabric content. Look for nylon-spandex blends under 200 GSM with moisture-wicking properties. Try bodysuits before separates, because they eliminate the layering gap that causes most visible lines. Buy your actual size, not a size down, because compression comes from engineering, not from forcing your body into a smaller garment. And if something rides up during the first wear, return it. Life is too short and Miami is too warm to negotiate with a garment that won't stay where you put it. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of DepositPhotos

Italian glassware brand Giberto Venezia  celebrated the opening of its pop-up at Casa Branca  in Palm Beach on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. The brand hosted an intimate cocktail event at the boutique, located at 344 Worth Avenue. Guests discovered a curated selection of Giberto Venezia’s signature glassware and decorative objects. The presentation showcased the brand’s hand-engraved Murano glass craftsmanship. The collection highlighted the house’s emphasis on personalization, heritage, and artisanal artistry, offering a contemporary take on traditional Venetian techniques designed for modern entertaining and collecting. Attendees included Giberto Arrivabene Valenti Gonzaga, Bianca Arrivabene (Princess of Savoy-Aosta), Alessandra Branca, Mafalda Arrivabene Valenti Gonzaga, Rosie Assoulin, Kara Sue Ackerman, Alana Peden, Cathy Graham, and Heather McQarri. By ML Staff. Photos: Angela McCall.

Miami’s financial district is set to welcome a new architectural and gastronomic landmark on March 14, 2026. Seia , a dual-concept destination featuring a contemporary Italian restaurant and an invitation-only private members club, will occupy the 54th and 55th floors of 830 Brickell, the city’s premier Class A office tower. Developed through a partnership between OKO Group —the real estate firm founded by Vlad Doronin—and The Bastion Collection , Seia represents a significant investment in Miami’s evolving urban landscape. The project integrates fine dining with a museum-quality art collection and a sophisticated social environment. Design and Artistic Identity The interiors, designed by Laurence Macadam of Zervudachi, Roberts & Macadam London , blend Italian modernism with textures inspired by the South Florida coast. The space is anchored by an extensive private art collection featuring works by Andy Warhol , Damien Hirst , Keith Haring , and Richard Prince . Notable pieces include Warhol’s Camouflage  series in the dining room and Hirst’s The Human Voice  within the private club. Culinary Program Named after the Roman goddess of sowing seeds, Seia focuses on seasonal ingredients and traditional Italian techniques. The kitchen is led by Executive Chef Salvatore Martone  and Executive Chef Alessandro Morrone . The menu highlights regional Italian flavors with a modern perspective. Featured dishes include: Carpaccio di Gamberi di Mazara:  Red shrimp with olive oil and lemon. Linguine alle Vongole Lupini:  A classic pasta dish featuring Mediterranean clams. Cotoletta alla Milanese:  Prepared with Vacca Rossa Parmigiano. Whole Dover Sole:  Served with zucchini escabeche and fennel pollen. The beverage program is overseen by Mixology Creative Director Michele Montauti , formerly of Aman. The cocktail menu is designed to mirror the Italian rhythm of dining, transitioning from light aperitivos to complex, spirit-forward compositions. Seia Club: An Elevated Private Experience Located on the 55th floor, Seia Club  provides a discreet environment for Miami’s business and cultural leaders. Operating from 7:00 a.m. for breakfast and informal meetings, the club transitions into a social hub by night with curated programming, including artist dialogues and live musical performances. Members receive priority reservations at the restaurant, access to a luxury concierge network, and use of the outdoor terrace overlooking Biscayne Bay . Operational Details Seia opens to the public for lunch and dinner on March 14. Reservations are available via SevenRooms . Hours of Operation: Restaurant:  Lunch (Mon–Fri, 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.); Dinner (Daily, starting at 5:00 p.m.). Seia Club:  Mon–Wed (7:00 a.m.–Midnight); Thu–Sat (7:00 a.m.–1:00 a.m.). For more information, visit: www.seiamiami.com . By ML Staff. Photos courtesy of OKO Group and The Bastion Collection.

Thom Browne has partnered with ASICS to release a redesigned version of the classic ASICS GEL-KAYANO 14, blending the brand’s performance-focused heritage with Browne’s tailoring-inspired design language. The collaboration centers on the GEL-KAYANO 14 silhouette, a long-standing model in the ASICS lineup. Browne’s version maintains the shoe’s recognizable upper structure while introducing premium materials and detailing that reflect his signature aesthetic. Grey and black editions of the sneaker feature real suede uppers, while the white version uses smooth leather. The updated materials shift the model’s appearance away from its purely performance-driven origins toward a more refined, fashion-oriented finish. Several design elements reference Browne’s personal and professional history. A lace catcher incorporates his signature red, white, and blue grosgrain ribbon on the white and black models, while the grey version uses tonal grosgrain. The detail references medals Browne earned as a varsity swimmer and long-distance runner. Each pair includes two lace options: metal-tipped laces finished with red, white, and blue accents, and a two-tone set that nods to the sneaker’s athletic roots. Additional tailoring-inspired touches appear in piping accents that echo the designer’s precise tipping details commonly seen in his clothing collections. Craftsmanship is emphasized through cross-stitch finishing across the shoe’s ASICS stripes, reinforcing the shared focus on construction between the sportswear brand and the fashion label. Inside the sneaker, the insole carries dual branding for Thom Browne and ASICS. It also features Browne’s “university stripe”: red-white-blue striping on the white and black colorways and grey-and-white striping on the grey version. The grey and black editions of the Thom Browne x ASICS GEL-KAYANO 14 launched March 2, 2026, through Thom Browne retail stores ( including Thom Browne Miami, 191 Northeast 40th Street), the brand’s official website, and selected retailers worldwide. Launch details for the white edition have not yet been announced. Updates and product information can be followed on: www.thombrowne.com www.instagram.com/thombrowne www.instagram.com/asics www.facebook.com/thombrowne www.youtube.com/asics By ML Staff. Photos courtesy of Thom Browne and ASICS.

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 Frances Tiafoe Jakub Mensik 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 Frances Tiafoe Jakub Mensik 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.

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 Frances Tiafoe Jakub Mensik 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

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 Frances Tiafoe Jakub Mensik Jannik Sinner Karen Khachanov Paula Badosa Tatjana Maria Taylor Fritz Read our Miami Open Guide: Tickets, Schedule & More Photos courtesy of Ben Shelton/Instagram.

As part of Miami Living’s  annual tennis interview series, we spoke with Jannik Sinner  in a city that has become central to his rise. From multiple finals appearances to a breakthrough championship run, Miami has played a defining role in his career. Here, the world No. 1 reflects on his early beginnings, his disciplined approach to recovery, and why the Miami Open stands out as one of the most meaningful tournaments on the tour at the Miami Open. BY MARKIN ABRAS | PHOTOS JANNIK SINNER/INSTAGRAM Jannik Sinner  was born in San Candido , Italy, a small town in the South Tyrol region near the Austrian border. His parents, Johann Sinner  and Siglinde Sinner , worked at a ski lodge, and his early years were divided between school, skiing, and tennis. A talented junior skier, he was one of the best in his age group in Italy before choosing tennis as his full focus. At 13, he left home and moved to Bordighera  to train under coach Riccardo Piatti , beginning a path that would quickly separate him from his peers.  Despite his rapid rise, his life away from the court has remained simple. He describes it plainly, saying, “I like to sleep in if I have the time. This is something I really like. I do play PlayStation. I like to go to good restaurants. And, you know, it’s actually a very, very normal life.” His progression into the professional ranks was immediate. After turning pro in 2018, he gained attention with his composure and shot-making, and in 2019 he won the Next Gen ATP Finals  in Milan , becoming the youngest Italian to win the event. He followed with his first ATP title at the Sofia Open  in 2020 and continued building consistency at the highest level.  Recovery and routine became essential as his schedule intensified. “The most important thing is to switch off mentally to sleep well,” he says. “Sleeping is the best recovery we can have. So for me, sleep is maybe the most important recovery. And usually I never struggle. I love to sleep.” That discipline supported his breakthrough at the Grand Slam level, including his victory at the Australian Open  in 2024, where he defeated Daniil Medvedev  to win his first major title. Later that season, he also won the ATP Finals  in Turin  and helped Italy  capture the Davis Cup , milestones that confirmed his position among the top players in the world. Miami has been one of the most important stops in his career. He reached the final of the Miami Open  in 2021 and again in 2023 before winning the title in 2024 with a victory over Grigor Dimitrov . His connection to the city is both professional and personal. “On the court, I usually always played very well there, making three finals and having great, great memories of that court,” he says. “I feel like it’s a beautiful place, maybe my favorite place in the U.S. You have everything. You have the beach, you have the city. It’s a very, very nice place.”  The physical demands of the tournament require careful preparation, especially in the heat and humidity. “You need to drink, obviously, a lot of water. I’m eating a lot of fruits and vegetables, because there is a lot of humidity and you lose a lot of water. So it’s really important to be as hydrated as possible.”  His victory at the Miami Open  in 2024 remains his best result at the tournament. Jannik Sinner stats: Age: 24 (16 August 2001) Birth place: San Candido, Italy Career high: World No. 1 Singles titles: 24 Miami Open Best: Champion in 2024 Prize Money: US$ 57,467,301 www.instagram.com/janniksin OTHER MIAMI LIVING INTERVIEWS Alex de Minaur Amanda Anisimova Ben Shelton Coco Gauff Frances Tiafoe Jakub Mensik Jannik Sinner Karen Khachanov Paula Badosa Tatjana Maria Taylor Fritz Read our Miami Open Guide: Tickets, Schedule & More Photos courtesy of Jannik Sinner/Instagram.

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 Mensik  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, Mensik 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, Mensik 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 Mensik'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 Mensik Jannik Sinner Karen Khachanov Paula Badosa Tatjana Maria Taylor Fritz Read our Miami Open Guide: Tickets, Schedule & More Photos courtesy of Jakub Mensik/Instagram.

For Coco Gauff , the Miami Open is more than a tournament stop — it is home. A native Floridian born in Delray Beach, Gauff returns each year to familiar courts and familiar conditions, competing in front of the community that first watched her rise. As part of Miami Living’s  annual tennis interview series, we spoke with the Grand Slam champion about growing up in Florida, managing success at a young age, and adjusting her game to Miami’s demanding heat and humidity at the Miami Open. BY MARKIN ABRAS | PHOTOS COCO GAUFF /INSTAGRAM Cori Dionne Gauff , known as Coco Gauff , was born in Delray Beach, Florida, and raised in nearby Atlanta  before her family returned to South Florida to support her tennis career. Her father, Corey Gauff, left his job to coach her, while her mother, Candi Gauff, managed her schedule. She began playing tennis at age six and later trained at the Mouratoglou Academy  under Patrick Mouratoglou . Gauff turned professional in 2018 and quickly made global headlines at Wimbledon  in 2019, where she defeated Venus Williams  in the first round at just 15 years old. She reached the fourth round in her Grand Slam debut, becoming one of the youngest players to achieve that milestone.  Despite her young age, she has remained grounded and approachable. She once shared a fun personal detail when asked about a hidden talent. “I can walk on my hands,” Coco Gauff  said. “That’s probably something people don’t expect, but everything else, they already know.” Her first WTA singles title came at the Linz Open  in 2019, making her the youngest tour-level champion in 15 years. She added titles at the Emilia-Romagna Open  in 2021 and began building consistency at the highest level. Her defining moment came at the US Open  in 2023, where she defeated Aryna Sabalenka  in the final to win her first Grand Slam singles title. That same season, she won the Western & Southern Open  in Cincinnati and followed it with another WTA 1000 title at the China Open  in Beijing in 2024, defeating Karolina Muchova  in the final.  She also won the ASB Classic  in Auckland in both 2023 and 2024. Her success during this stretch helped her rise to a career high ranking of world No. 2. Off the court, she keeps her routines simple, especially when it comes to sleep. “I try not to be on my phone right before bed,” she said. “Once I’m tired, I fall asleep pretty easily.” Playing the Miami Open  holds special meaning for Gauff because it takes place close to where she grew up and trained. The conditions require adjustments, especially compared to other stops on tour. “Hydration is very important here,” she explained. “Coming from Indian Wells, which is dry, to Miami, you have to be ready for the humidity. I also try to play the ball deep, because the heat can really affect the points.” Her best result at the Miami Open  came in 2022, 2024, and 2025, when she reached the fourth round in each of those years. Coco Gauff's stats: Age: 21 (March 13, 2004) Birth place: Delray Beach, Florida Career high: World No. 2 Single titles: 11 Miami Open Best: 4th Round in 2022, 2024 and 2025 Prize Money: US$ 30,830,836 www.instagram.com/cocogauff OTHER MIAMI LIVING INTERVIEWS Alex de Minaur Amanda Anisimova Ben Shelton Coco Gauff Frances Tiafoe Jakub Mensik Jannik Sinner Karen Khachanov Paula Badosa Tatjana Maria Taylor Fritz Read our Miami Open Guide: Tickets, Schedule & More Photos courtesy of Coco Gauff/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 Frances Tiafoe Jakub Mensik 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.