Tennis stars got in some practice with their fans before hitting the courts at the U.S. Open.  

Serena and Venus Williams and Rafael Nadal teamed up to host a virtual tennis tournament at Lotte New York Palace Hotel.

The athletes mingled with fans before pairing up and taking the virtual court.

Nadal told us it was a fun way to unwind ahead of the big tournament.  

"I enjoyed it. It's in an amazing place. These tourists in the New York Palace, it's just fantastic, and we were able to have some fun, so we're happy for that," Nadal said. "New York is a very special city, and the U.S. Open is obviously a very unique event with a lot of energy from the fans, the city by itself. So just very excited to be back here."

The U.S. Open kicks off on Monday.