Love, Tennis & the Best Red Clay Courts in Costa Rica
A Story of Passion, Purpose, and World-Class Tennis at Jade Nosara
Ten years ago, Carroll Ivy and I met through work. She was introduced to me, and I hired her PR and social media firm. Two years later, during Easter week, I invited her and her two boys to visit my private property in Nosara, Costa Rica. At the time, she had never seen the village, the jungle, or the red clay tennis courts that would soon become the foundation of our love story..
That week, under the glow of a full moon, we fell in love.
Fast forward eight years, and our love for tennis and travel has taken us across the world. We’ve played on red clay courts whenever possible in every country we’ve visited, attending some of the most prestigious tournaments, including all four Grand Slams in 2018 to celebrate my 50th birthday..
Carroll, this is the greatest love letter I’ve ever written. I love you.
Our favorite tournament?
The Monte Carlo Open, where we stayed in Menton, France, and played tennis in San Remo, Italy—a trip that remains one of our most cherished memories.
Reviving the Best Red Clay Tennis Courts in Costa Rica
Now, we’ve come full circle. We took over the very two European-style red clay tennis courts in Nosara where we first fell in love, dedicating six months and a significant investment to resurfacing them to the highest professional standards. Our goal was clear:
Chemical-free, sustainable courts
The best European red clay surface in Costa Rica
Meticulous maintenance for world-class playability
April Tennis Retreat at Jade Nosara
To achieve this, we hired a German tennis court contractor to ensure that our courts matched the finest in Europe. The result? The most perfectly maintained red clay courts in Costa Rica—a place where professionals, locals, and guests alike can experience the true beauty of clay court tennis.
Tennis for the Next Generation: Free Lessons for Kids
Carroll had a vision beyond just perfecting the courts—she wanted to give back to the community by making tennis accessible to all children. We launched free tennis lessons for kids, creating opportunities for young players who otherwise wouldn’t have access to the sport.
Isai Carrillo Rangel
Last night, under the new court lights, we held our first lesson for two young girls from the community. We hired a young coach, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions we’ve made. He’s a natural teacher, and this opportunity is life-changing for him.
Watching the joy on the faces of these young players, hearing their excitement—it was pure magic. La vida es una bendición.
The Best Tennis Experience in Costa Rica
This past week, I played countless matches on our newly resurfaced courts, hitting with tennis professionals, old friends, and new players alike. The experience was surreal—the courts played like a dream, rivaling some of the finest in the world. In fact, I can confidently say these are the best red clay courts I’ve ever played on—with one exception. The only courts that compare are the Waldorf Astoria courts in Rome, Italy, where Novak Djokovic trains before the Italian Open.
Building a Tennis Community at Jade Nosara
Jade Nosara isn’t just a private boutique hotel; it’s a sanctuary where tennis, nature, and community come together. The team behind this project has been incredible, and I want to highlight one key member:
Carlos, who started as a gardener at Jade Nosara over a year ago, transitioned to the construction team for the courts. Over the past six months, he has developed an immense sense of pride in maintaining our red clay. Red clay courts require daily care, and Carlos has mastered the art of keeping them in pristine condition. Last night, under the lights, I asked Carlos to hit with me. To my surprise, he is a natural tennis player. We laughed, played, and shared a moment that proved once again—tennis has the power to transform lives. Soon, he will be assisting in our children’s tennis clinics, growing into a new role as a tennis coach.
Carlos Andres Lopez Matarrita
Join Us at Jade Nosara for the Ultimate Red Clay Tennis Experience
Jade Nosara is more than just a luxury retreat—it’s a place where tennis lovers, professionals, and travelers come together to experience the best red clay courts in Costa Rica. Whether you’re looking to train, play, or simply enjoy the beauty of world-class tennis in the jungle by the sea, we welcome you to be part of this journey.
Experience Tennis at Jade Nosara
• World-class red clay tennis courts
• Private and group lessons with professionals
• Luxury boutique accommodations
• A thriving tennis community in Nosara, Costa Rica
Come play with us. Tennis, love, and paradise await.
