Kevin Anderson Honored With U.S. Open Sportsmanship Award
September 9, 2015 | By Long Island Tennis Magazine Staff
The USTA has announced that Kevin Anderson of South Africa has received the fifth annual U.S. Open Sportsmanship Award, presented to the professional tennis player who best demonstrates excellence in sportsmanship throughout the Emirates Airline U.S. Open Series and the U.S. Open. The award was presented to him by USTA Sportsmanship Selection Committee Chairman Todd Martin.
“Of all the players on tour, Kevin consistently ranks among those who best embody respect and sportsmanship, even in the heat of competition,” said USTA Chairman, CEO and President Katrina Adams. “He is a tremendous role model and is deserving of this year’s US Open Sportsmanship Award.”
The USTA started a Sportsmanship Committee in 2011. Its charge is to “educate and inspire youngsters and their parents to develop and exhibit a high degree of sportsmanship and an attitude of fair play and mutual respect on and off the tennis court. Underlying the charge is the ethical imperative that fairness is more important than winning.”
Eligibility requirements for winners include participating in at least two Series tournaments, as well as the 2015 U.S. Open. Each U.S. Open Sportsmanship Award winner receives a trophy and a $5,000 donation to the charity of his or her choice. Past winners include Roger Federer and Caroline Wozniacki (2014), Li Na and David Ferrer (2013) and Bob & Mike Bryan and Samantha Stosur (2012).
