Photo credit: Sean Shanahan Photography
The USTA hosted its annual gala bringing together the leaders from the tennis community for a night dedicated to celebrating service, innovation and the common mission of continuing the growth of the sport in the United States. This year’s event was held at the elegant Salamander Hotel and drew together leaders in tennis, athletes, supporters, and advocates — all gathered to honor a pair of transformative figures in the tennis world and to raise critical funds for expanding access to the sport across the Mid-Atlantic. Guests were welcomed into a beautifully decorated Salamander Hotel, where seasonal decorations, twinkling lights, and classic holiday touches created a warm and celebratory atmosphere. The holiday theme added a sense of joy and togetherness, perfectly complementing the gala’s mission of giving back.
Sam Querrey and John Isner
This year’s event honored two of the game’s most influential figures: Ray Benton, CEO and Board member of the Junior Tennis Championship Center (JTCC) and Stacey Allaster, the US Open Tournament Director in addition to several others who give their time and energy to the local tennis communities. The event was hosted by former professional tennis players and thehosts of the podcast Nothing Major: Sam Querrey and John Isner who did an impeccable job hosting.
Ray Benton
Ray Benton was presented with the Visionary Award. He is long regarded as one of the most effective leaders who shaped a generation of American tennis, and was recognized for his decades of service and his transformative work in expanding access to the sport. His leadership at the Junior Tennis Champions Center (JTCC) and his commitment to community outreach have shaped the paths of countless young athletes. In the tribute video, Ray’s colleagues acknowledged his massive contributions to tennis on many fronts. “Ray built bridges raising champions on the court in character, resilience and community. Ray helped shape national policy to support underrepresented communities to reach tennis across the country. To Ray Benton, success was never just about winning matches, it was and is about changing lives.” Through his decades of leadership, Ray’s vision, integrity, and steadfast belief that tennis can change lives both on and off the court.
Sam Querrey, John Isner with Stacey Allaster
Stacey Allaster was honored with the Tennis Creates Impact Award for her pioneering leadership and her role in elevating the US Open to new heights. She has served the tennis community for over the last 38 years. Her most recent position was the Chief Executive of Professional Tennis at the USTA and US Open Tournament Director. Her previous roles include VP of Sales and Marketing of the Rogers Cup and President of the Women’s Tennis Association. She continued her career as chairperson and CEO of the WTA Tour where she secured one billion dollars in diversified contract revenues. She has been a champion for innovation, inclusivity, and the growth of the sport at every level. Speakers highlighted her historic achievements, including her tenure as the first female US Open Tournament Director and her influence on global tennis policy and player advocacy.
Sam Querrey, John Isner and Stacey Allaster
Part of the program was a panel discussion with Stacy Allaster on how tennis has been on the forefront with women in sports. Stacey explained the moment in history that Billie Jean King changed everything. “It was 1972, Billie had won the US Open and she walked up and said if we don’t get equal prize money next year we are not coming out.” The tournament director said “If you bring the sponsor, we will pay.” Billie Jean King brought the sponsor which was a deodorant company. That was an incredibly historic moment for tennis.” The US Open has been the leader in all sports for equal pay for 53 years paying the most and paying equal. The panel was interesting and information added a unique perspective to the evening.
In addition to honoring the guests, the gala featured an active silent and live auction that drew enthusiastic participation from attendees. Auction offerings included a variety of exclusive experiences, premium travel and hospitality packages, tennis-related opportunities, sports
memorabilia, and lifestyle items generously donated by supporters and partners of the USTA. The auction not only added excitement to the evening but also played a crucial role in advancing the foundation’s charitable mission.
The proceeds from the silent and live auction almost reached $500,000. They directly support USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation programs, including youth tennis initiatives, National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) programs, player scholarships, community facility development, and
the Girls Rule the Court initiative, which empowers young girls through tennis, education, and leadership development. These programs work year-round to break down barriers to participation and use tennis as a vehicle for positive life skills.
Throughout the evening, attendees celebrated not only the accomplishments of Benton and Allaster, but also the collective progress of American tennis. The gala emphasized the importance of continued investment in junior programs, community initiatives, and the expansion of opportunities for players nationwide. The USTA gala once again served as a reminder of the passion, dedication, and collaboration that fuel the sport’s enduring success. As the evening concluded, guests left inspired by the honorees’ contributions and energized for the seasons ahead.
