NEW YORK, August 30, 2023 (USTA Press Release)
The USTA Foundation, the national charitable arm of the United States Tennis Association (USTA), today announced that it raised more than $3 million during its Opening Night Gala at the 2023 US Open, the organization’s largest annual fundraising event.
Since its inception, the USTA Foundation has awarded more than $64 million in grants and scholarships. These funds support the National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) network, which leverages tennis, education, and life skills programming to thousands of youth nationwide. The NJTL network, which now consists of more than 270 chapters, was created in 1969 by tennis legend Arthur Ashe, along with Charlie Pasarell and Sheridan Snyder, and aims to provide under-resourced youth with the tools they need to help them succeed both on and off the court.
For the sixth consecutive year, ESPN served as the presenting sponsor of the Opening Night Gala, hosted by award-winning journalist and USTA Foundation Player and Celebrity Advisory Council member Katie Couric. Couric also led a live auction where supporters could bid on experience and items.
The event also honored 18-time Grand Slam singles champion and USTA Foundation Board Chair Chris Evert with the “Serving Up Dreams” award. Evert was presented the award for her support and dedication to the principles and ideals of the USTA Foundation.
“The generosity of our donors and corporate partners will have a tangible impact on tens of thousands of young people across the country,” said USTA Foundation Board President Kathleen Wu. “We are grateful for their support of our mission and commitment to helping us develop the next generation of leaders on and off the tennis court.”
Supporters in attendance included actor and comedian Danny DeVito, Grammy award-winning artist Seal, tennis champion Maria Sharapova, US Olympic gold medalist Lindsey Vonn, fashion icons Anna Wintour and Vera Wang, journalist Gayle King, businessman and “Shark Tank” investor Daymond John, former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson, and many more.
