Before crowds soared during Serena Williams’ winning match at Arthur Ashe on Monday night, the evening began with the USTA Foundation’s annual gala. The night brought together actors, journalists, fashionable tastemakers, and tennis greats; attendees included Hugh Jackman, Anna Wintour, Vera Wang, Katie Couric, Rebel Wilson, Mike Tyson, Gayle King, Mike and Bob Bryan, and more.
The gala began with flowing cocktails and Champagne, followed by dinner and a special live auction, which contributed over $330,000 in fundraising to the night’s final total. The evening’s special honor went to Kevin Martinez, vice president of corporate citizenship at ESPN, who received the USTAF’s Serving Up Dreams Award.
This year, the gala was particularly special for its record-breaking fundraiser, surpassing $3 million. The funds help support the National Junior Tennis & Learning program, which provides educational tennis programs across the country to over 160,000 underserved youth each year.
Led by emcee Anthony Anderson, the night was full of vivacity and support for the USTAF’s efforts. “This was an incredible night that saw everyone come together to support our mission of changing lives through tennis and education,” said USTA foundation board president Kathleen Wu. “The impact of the funds raised tonight will make a difference for thousands of under-resourced children who will benefit from the community programs supported by the USTA Foundation.”
After the auction, guests proceeded to the President’s Box to watch the night’s star player, Serena Williams, begin her last career run at the U.S. Open. It was a night to remember.
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