USTA Foundation to Honor Evert With ‘Serving Up Dreams’ Award
August 9, 2023
The USTA Foundation, the charitable arm of the USTA, announced that 18-time Grand Slam singles champion and former world No. 1 Chris Evert will be honored with the Serving Up Dreams Award at the USTA Foundation’s annual Opening Night Gala on August 28 at the 2023 US Open.
The Serving Up Dreams Award is presented to an individual or individuals who embody the values of dedicated service to help advance the USTA Foundation mission and the National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) network. Evert is a longtime supporter of the USTA Foundation and currently serves as Chairperson of its Board, a position she has held since 2019. In her role, Evert serves as the Foundation’s spokesperson to promote its mission and increase the impact of its national outreach efforts to under-resourced youth. Evert’s commitment to the USTA Foundation enhances the Foundation’s ability to provide opportunities to strengthen communities and change lives through tennis nationwide.
Evert first collaborated with the USTA Foundation in 2016 to establish the Jimmy Evert Fund, a scholarship fund in honor of her late father who was a coach and mentor to many aspiring tennis athletes. These scholarships were developed, along with the support of Evert’s family, as a result of the USTA Foundation’s ability to directly impact youth through tennis and education programming, and are designed to provide opportunities for kids to excel both on and off the tennis court.
“The USTA Foundation is an organization that is near and dear to my heart,” said Chris Evert. “I grew up and developed my game in the public park system where my dad taught, and I know the profound impact tennis can have on a young person’s life. It’s so rewarding to be able to help give back and provide future generations the opportunity to learn and grow through tennis just as I did. I am grateful to the USTA Foundation for this amazing honor and I look forward to continuing to work together to help young people realize their fullest potential.”
Evert’s impressive 17-year career landed her 18 Grand Slam singles titles, including six singles crowns at the US Open, and seven year-end world No. 1 singles rankings. She retired in 1989 at the age of 34, and was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame six years later. Since 2011, Evert has served as a tennis analyst for ESPN, covering all four Grand Slam tournaments. In addition to her broadcasting role, Evert also writes a monthly publisher’s column for Tennis Magazine.
“Chris Evert is the true embodiment of the USTA Foundation’s spirit,” said Kathleen Wu, USTA Foundation Board President. “She’s not just a legend on the court; she’s a force of nature in changing lives. With her unwavering support, we’ve ignited a spark of hope in tens of thousands of kids nationwide, empowering them to dream bigger and excel in both tennis and academics. Her passion and dedication fuel the heart of our mission, and we can’t thank her enough for the immeasurable impact she’s made. It is with utmost honor that we bestow upon her the prestigious Serving Up Dreams Award this year.”
A resident of Boca Raton, Fla., Evert lends her time and effort to raise funds for many causes important to her and her family, and serves as a board member for several organizations.
To learn more about the USTA Foundation, please visit ustafoundation.com and follow @USTAFoundation on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.