The USTA announced this week that it has donated $500,000 as part of initial contributions toward immediate Hurricane Harvey relief efforts, and the organization pledged additional funds to come from on-site fundraising at the US Open—including efforts involving five-time US Open champion Jimmy Connors—as well as future donations to aid those affected by the storm.
On site at the US Open, five-time champion Jimmy Connors participated in a campaign to raise relief funds through signing autographs and taking photos with fans, all while encouraging them to donate. The USTA has pledged to match any funds raised by Connors and will ensure it is all donated directly to the Red Cross for Harvey relief.
The USTA has also worked with ESPN to develop messaging for on-screen graphics and other programming encouraging US Open viewers to donate to Harvey relief, including a PSA featuring players John Isner, Madison Keys and Sam Querrey.
Following the $500,000 immediate donation, the USTA says it will work with the USTA Texas Section to allocate future funds toward upgrades needed for storm-affected tennis facilities.
Photo Credit: USTA/US Open