Tennis is more than just a sport; it represents hope to countless individuals out in the world. Along with their athletic achievements, tennis legends have stepped forward time and time again to influence society for the better. The American tennis player Andy Roddick once spoke candidly about how legends of various generations have altered their views on social issues.

After more than a decade on the ATP tour and suffering multiple injuries, the former world number one decided to end his career in 2012. The tennis pro put his racket away and concentrated on helping people all over the world through the Andy Roddick’s foundation.

Andy Roddick highlighted the inspiration behind his foundation

The 2003 US Open champion discussed his motivation for being involved in the social change space in a conversation with Cure that took place in 2019. He believes that the sport is not given sufficient recognition as many tennis stars, both active and retired, have done their fair share in helping underprivileged and marginalized communities around the world. 

During the interview, he said, “Billie Jean King, Arthur Ashe, Martina Navratilova, Andre Agassi, Roger Federer, and Serena Williams. These are absolute world icons who have made positive change through literacy, education, equality, and have defined what the next generations think about social change. That’s what inspired me to invest in education and provide opportunities in my hometown in Austin.”

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The tennis legend has seen players like Serena Williams, Roger Federer, Andre Agassi, and Martina Navratilova constantly invest in charitable endorsements and have changed the way the future generation looks up to them.

Andy Roddick’s foundation

In order to aid young children in his hometown, Austin, the former tennis player started his own organization in 2000. The charity supports early children’s education as well as excellent after-school learning and other necessary activities for talented children with limited financial resources. Notably, the organization assists Austin-area youths in acquiring opportunities.

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However, even during the pandemic, the foundation supported many families with emergency funding. Roddick has successfully followed the path of giving back to society like other tennis icons such as Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.