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Joburg’s Closest Thing to Centre Court

AMEX Tennis Town brought Wimbledon to Montecasino – and somehow made it feel uniquely South African

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There are two ways to watch the Wimbledon finals. You can settle into the couch with a cup of tea, or you can find yourself surrounded by hundreds of fellow tennis fans beneath the winter sun, cocktail in hand, strawberries and cream within easy reach, and the unmistakable applause of Centre Court echoing across Montecasino. Fortunately, we chose the latter. 

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Hosted by American Express, Tennis South Africa, AMEX Tennis Town transformed Montecasino into a celebration of everything that makes Wimbledon one of the most iconic tournaments in tennis. It wasn’t simply a public screening. It was a fully immersive sporting festival that captured the elegance of SW19 while giving it a distinctly Joburg flavour. 

The giant outdoor screen naturally became the focal point, with fans settling into deckchairs to watch every rally unfold. Between matches, however, there was plenty to explore. Families wandered through the interactive fan village where children could test their skills on a purpose-built tennis court, challenge one another in games and activities, or simply burn off energy in the dedicated kids’ zone. Meanwhile, Land Rover showcased its latest luxury SUVs, while Dunlop gave visitors a closer look at the equipment behind the game. 

We were fortunate enough to experience the exclusive AMEX Tennis Town Café, where complimentary cocktails, wines and refreshments flowed throughout the afternoon. The hospitality was polished and refined, creating exactly the sort of relaxed atmosphere Wimbledon itself has become famous for. 

 The culinary highlight belonged to Gemelli, whose reputation as one of Joburg’s finest Italian restaurants was on full display. Founded by Alessandro Mosupi Khojane, Gemelli has built its name on generous hospitality and beautifully executed comfort food, and the carefully curated menu reflected exactly that. From succulent smoked beef ribs and rich oxtail rigatoni to grilled kingklip, Basotho lamb chops and wild mushroom gnocchi, every dish felt worthy of the occasion. Dessert, naturally, included the quintessential Wimbledon pairing of strawberries and cream, alongside indulgent sticky toffee pudding and berry cheesecake. 

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As the afternoon drifted towards evening, DJs kept the atmosphere lively while fans lingered over one last drink, one final dessert and the closing moments of another unforgettable Wimbledon final. 

AMEX Tennis Town proved that watching sport has evolved beyond simply following the score. Done well, it becomes an experience. One that combines world-class tennis with exceptional food, premium hospitality and family-friendly entertainment into a winter weekend that felt every bit as memorable as the action unfolding on Centre Court. 

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If AMEX Tennis Town returns next year-and we sincerely hope it does-it deserves a place on every Joburg sporting calendar. Whether you’re a lifelong tennis enthusiast or simply looking for a sophisticated winter day out with family or friends, this is one event that serves up far more than just tennis. 

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