The Miami Open Unites day of service was a heartwarming display of solidarity as top tennis stars and tournament director James Blake rallied to support the local community in Miami-Dade County. The players, including notable names like Alexander Zverev, Sofia Kenin, Caroline Garcia, and more, showcased their off-court skills in giving back to the welcoming city that hosts the prestigious Miami Open at the Hard Rock Stadium.
From trading rackets for paint brushes to lending a hand at local organizations, the players engaged in various community activities:
– ️ Rebuilding Together: Stefanos Tsitsipas, Sebastian Korda, Caroline Dolehide, and Hailey Baptiste teamed up with Rebuilding Together to revitalize homes of senior citizens in Miami Gardens through painting and landscaping efforts.
– Humane Society of Greater Miami: Casper Ruud, Alex de Minaur, Grigor Dimitrov, Jessica Pegula, Katie Boulter, and Zheng Qinwen spent time at the Humane Society of Greater Miami, offering care and support to animals in need across South Florida.
– ACEing Cancer Program: Karen Khachanov, Sloane Stephens, and Tournament Director James Blake supported breast cancer awareness with the WTA Foundation’s ACEing Cancer Program, aiding medically underserved women in the Miami region.
– Health in the Hood: Jasmine Paolini, Jack Draper, Cam Norrie, and Nicolás Jarry joined Health in the Hood in Pinewood Gardens to promote wellness in Miami’s underserved neighborhoods by planting vegetable gardens.
– Miami Rescue Mission: Holger Rune, Hubert Hurkacz, Alexander Zverev, and others volunteered at the Miami Rescue Mission, serving dinner and providing support to the homeless community in South Florida.
The day of service culminated in an energetic tennis clinic at the Moore Park Tennis Center, founded by Miami Open founder Butch Buchholz and tennis legend Arthur Ashe. Players interacted with children from First Serve Miami, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami, and newcomers Amigos for Kids, promoting mentorship and community engagement through tennis.
As the players prepare to refocus on the Miami Open competition, the spirit of unity and goodwill fostered during the community service day will continue to resonate both on and off the court. The Miami Open runs until March 31 at the esteemed Hard Rock Stadium.
Photo credit: Miami Open presented by Itaú