The Desert Smash is known for bringing together some of the biggest names in Hollywood with the world’s most accomplished tennis elite, and this year is no exception as one of Hollywood and television’s most adored leading men is set to kick off the 13th annual event in the desert
Award-winning actor, Jon Hamm, will be hosting and playing in this year’s notorious Celebrity vs. Pro match March 7 at the Westin Mission Hills in Rancho Mirage.
This year’s annual charity Pro-Am will also be hosted by actor, Boris Kodjoe and benefit Sophie’s Voice Foundation. A portion of the event’s ticket sales will also be donated to a Palm Springs charity, Variety – Charity of the Desert.
The Desert Smash Celebrity/Pro-Am Tournament is arguably one of the country’s most prominent charitable set of matches, composed of ranked WTA and ATP Tour players and some of the most notable and recognized celebrity players from Hollywood. Past professional tennis participants include ATP World No. 1 Novak Djokovic, John Isner, Stan Wawrinka, ATP World No. 1 doubles team Mike and Bob Bryan, Andre Agassi, Steffi Graf, Maria Sharapova, Caroline Wozniacki, Victoria Azarenka and Eugenie Bouchard.
Each year, this sell-out event attracts both celebrity and tennis fans for an opportunity to play and rub elbows with the world’s best tennis players. Past celebrity hosts and attendees include Will Ferrell, Kevin Hart, Kevin Spacey, Rebel Wilson, Joel McHale, Michael B. Jordan, Justin Chambers, Timothy Olyphant, Lance Bass and Boris Kodjoe.
In traditional Desert Smash fashion, the day kicks off with the ultra-exclusive, VIP Pro-Am Tournament and renowned Southern California competitive, high-energy on-court workout, “Tennacity,” also known in some circles as “LiveBall.” Following these fun, interactive experiences is the fan favorite Pro vs. Celebrity Exhibition singles and doubles matches, which will take place on Westin’s Stadium Tennis Court.
Afterward, the Westin Mission Hills Resort & Spa will host an evening cocktail party and live concert with a set by DJ Bob Sinclar and surprise celebrity artists. Previous performances included sets by Justin Bieber, Ja Rule, Lifehouse, Nelly, Natasha Bedingfield, RedFoo, Boyz II Men, Skunk Baxter and Gavin Rossdale.
Desert Smash, 1 p.m. March 7, Westin Mission Hills, 71333 Dinah Shore Drive, Rancho Mirage; www.desertsmash.com