LETTERS FROM THE EDITORS
Kimberly Arena Editorial Director
TENNIS TRIUMPHS AND LOSSES Experiencing one of the most comprehensive and tragic health crises in a century, combined with an angry, polarized and violent social and political climate has left me with one certain conclusion: the world will never be the same. Fear of the unknown can be paralyzing, and I admit I’ve struggled with finding the positives amidst such drastic change. My hope is that enough of us are listening, learning, caring for one another and seeking personal growth as an outcome to these trying times. Despite quarantines, cancelled tournaments and events and countless tennis court shutdowns during stay at home orders, this sport has been my ray of hope through the last 4 months. Tennis has kept me and my team employed despite a crashing economy. Tennis has provided me with a safe way to be outside, stay fit and have fun with friends and family during a devastating pandemic. Perhaps the most paramount, tennis has provided a global voice in bringing more awareness to systemic racism, inequality and injustice. Frances Tiafoe, Serena Williams, Coco Gauff and many other professional players of color literally brought me to tears with their “Racquet down, hands up” movement as they expressed support for the Black Lives Matter cause and to highlight peaceful protests. I have never been so proud of our industry. All that said, pro tennis players, like the rest of us, are not immune to questionable decisions and mistakes. Not only did Djokovic’s Adria Tour not require social distancing safety measures, but did so on a public stage which many would say indicates they do not take the pandemic seriously and in turn influences others. The result of their reckless actions are a number of ATP players testing positive for COVID-19, including the world number one and head of the ATP players council himself. Will this serious misstep cause the US Open to change course and cancel their modified format tournament along with the rest of the fall season? During a time when each day seems to hand us another curveball, it seems like a looming possibility… What the future holds for the health and wellbeing of all our citizens, the economy, and the sport of tennis is unknown, but I remain hopeful and cautiously optimistic. I ask that you all embrace that same sense of hope. Take care of each other, and remember actions speak louder than words. Listen and learn from those that struggle and are asking for help. And most definitely get outside and play some safe, socially distanced tennis to keep your optimism and spirits high.
4
EXPERIENCE Magazine | www.ExperienceCDT.com
