'We must continue to develop that supportive environment'

As we reach the end of Pride Month, I wanted to recognise the work that some of the ITF’s member National Associations and many others across tennis do to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion in our sport.

From unique LGBTQ+ leagues to awareness days at events of all sizes there have been a variety of initiatives designed to help celebrate this period of awareness that is as crucial as ever.

I am proud to work in a sport that provides welcoming and inclusive spaces for people from the LGBTQ+ community to enjoy playing and spectating. Fans, players and organisations must continue to develop that supportive environment where people can feel comfortable being their authentic selves while enjoying the myriad benefits tennis has to offer.

Of course, we are also blessed to have icons like Billie Jean King within tennis who have and continue to strive so passionately for equality. Without people like her, tennis and sport in general would not have progressed to where it is today.

As a sport there is plenty for tennis to reflect on positively. However, we are under no illusion that there is still work to do to make tennis – and sport as a whole – truly inclusive for all.

The ITF will continue to work hard to achieve this in the international game and will always support its member National Associations in their work to achieve this in their nations.

With very best wishes

David Haggerty