Hidden Dunes Resort Earns 2026 Award of Excellence In Racquet Sports by Tennis Resorts Online

Hidden Dunes Beach & Racquet Resort is celebrating an exciting milestone this year, earning a prestigious 2026 Tennis Resorts Online Award of Excellence as Bronze Medal Winner among the Top 100 Racquet Resorts. This recognition places Hidden Dunes among the top racquet sports destinations in the world, honoring the resort’s long‑standing commitment to exceptional guest experiences, beautifully maintained facilities, and a welcoming tennis community that keeps players returning year after year.

A Legacy of Excellence on the Courts

Each year, Tennis Resorts Online evaluates tennis destinations across the globe, highlighting the best places for players to train, compete, and enjoy the sport they love. Earning this recognition for 14 consecutive years, Hidden Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center is consistently recognized for its championship clay courts, as well as the team's dedication to creating a tennis environment that feels both world‑class and wonderfully welcoming.

Guests consistently praise the resort’s professional instruction, friendly, like-level game‑matching service, and the peaceful setting that makes every match feel like a retreat. Whether visitors come for a family vacation, a tennis getaway, or a competitive weekend on the courts, Hidden Dunes Racquet Center continues to deliver an experience that stands out among the racquet sports community.

Hidden Dunes Director of Racquet Sports - Rhett Russell Creates Fun Environment on the Courts

Director of Racquet Sports Rhett Russell brings a long career of tennis instruction and tournament play along with the support of his racquet-wielding family, which includes wife, Amy Russell, and six children who have all earned their own prestigious tennis rankings. A graduate of the University of Alabama, Rhett has led tennis programs around the Southeast, including Fairhope, Orange Beach and Sea Island.  A USPTA Certified Elite Pro, Rhett has been a member of the United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) for more than 25 years, and served as the president of USPTA Alabama for two consecutive years. 

Rhett offers a variety of tennis instruction from private lessons to open clinics. He has continued to host Hidden Dunes Resort traditions, including the Hubert Kessler Invitational as well as add Pickleball tournaments, which have been growing in popularity along with the sport.

It's a Team Effort

This award is a reflection of the passion, dedication, and hospitality that define Hidden Dunes Beach & Racquet Resort. From the professional staff who keep the courts in top condition, provide expert instruction and like-level game matching services to the guests who bring energy and enthusiasm to every match, this recognition belongs to the entire Hidden Dunes Racquet Resort family. We look forward to welcoming players back to the courts for another unforgettable year of tennis and pickleball on the Emerald Coast.

Visit Our Award-Winning Racquet Center 

Hidden Dunes Beach & Racquet Resort is honored to celebrate this remarkable achievement and grateful for the players, guests, and staff who make our racquet center like no other. 

We invite you to experience our award‑winning courts, welcoming community, and the unmatched coastal charm that make Hidden Dunes Beach & Racquet Resort an acclaimed racquet destination on Florida's Emerald Coast.

Book your next Hidden Dunes Resort stay online or call one of our friendly, local vacation specialists at (850) 837-1071 anytime between 9 AM and 5 PM CST. To book your court time, sign up for game level matching or racquet instruction, call the Hidden Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center at (850) 269-2590.

See you @ the court!

Published on Friday, August 7, 2026