USTA Allocates $3 Million To Refurbish Courts In Coco Gauff's Name Across Country
WTA
Coco Gauff's 2023 US Open victory is having a significant impact on tennis in the United States, as the country's leading tennis body is pledging $3 million to refurbish courts around the country.
The state of tennis hasn't been in the best shape in the United States, as there have been reports of tennis courts being converted to pickleball courts due to the popularity of the emerging sport. Considering the long history of tennis in the United States, it broke many fans' hearts.
Thankfully, the sport is fighting back, and it's also thanks to Coco Gauff, who won her maiden Grand Slam. Winning it on home soil was very special for the teenager, but it also prompted the country's leading body (USTA) to invest in the sport, seeing how much interest Gauff created.
In an announcement on their website, the USTA pledged to allocate 3 million to refurbish existing courts nationwide. It's much needed as several courts haven't been in the best shape for a while.
"n recognition of Coco Gauff’s US Open women's singles title, and to celebrate an American winning the US Open, the USTA has committed to the refurbishment of up to 200 courts across the country, as part of the newly created US Open Legacy Initiative."
"In total, the USTA will allocate $3 million to reinvigorate courts at public parks and facilities across America, dedicated in Coco Gauff’s name. This $3 million matches the prize money for the US Open women's singles champion."
Their announcement confirmed that the allocation is in Gauff's name to recognize her tremendous achievement. They hope it becomes tradition any time a native player wins the US Open. US tennis has been on the rise lately, with young players emerging left and right.
Should any of them win the event, the USTA will invest further into the sport, and it's much needed. Perhaps some players also add to the donation, creating a tradition that should see the sport continue to thrive in the country.
"In future years, in the case of an American US Open men’s or women’s singles champion, the USTA will make a similar commitment to advancing the USTA mission of promoting and developing the growth of tennis across the country, which could range from equipment donations to coaching grants and beyond."
The list of great champions from the United States is long, and Gauff's name is slowly earning the right to be displayed among them. She hopes to inspire many young kids to pick up the racquet, the same way Serena and Venus Williams inspired her. This gesture from the USTA will help with that.
