Pride Lives On: GLTA’s Year-Round Commitment to Inclusivity in Tennis

As June draws to a close, Pride Tennis Worldwide (GLTA) reflects on a vibrant Pride Month filled with celebration, reflection, renewed commitment, and new relationships. While June provides a dedicated spotlight, the GLTA knows that Pride is a year-long celebration and a continuous commitment to equality, visibility, and the power of community in the sport of tennis.

“Pride Month is an essential time for reflection, celebration, and continued advocacy,” said Matt Feinberg, GLTA Board President. “For the GLTA, it’s an opportunity to honor the rich history of the LGBTQIA+ rights movement, including our own 40+ year history of growth from 4 tournaments in the United States to more than 90 worldwide, and to celebrate the diversity and resilience of our players, organizers, and supporters around the world. Our celebration of Pride is particularly important at this point in world history, with the launch of all-too-frequent discriminatory attacks aimed at diversity, equity, and inclusion, trans folks, and the LGBTQIA+ community as a whole. Participating in the GLTA tour and representing the community is a triumph in the face of the current atmosphere of adversity. Tennis is a sport for everyone, and we are proud to create an environment where LGBTQIA+ individuals and our allies can compete, connect, and be their authentic selves.”

Throughout June, GLTA member clubs and tournaments actively participated in Pride celebrations, promoting visibility and fostering a welcoming atmosphere. This month served as a powerful reminder of the progress made toward LGBTQIA+ equality and the ongoing work still needed to ensure all individuals are treated with dignity and respect, both on and off the tennis court.

The GLTA has a long-standing history of promoting inclusivity within the world of amateur tennis. By sanctioning tournaments across the globe, the organization provides opportunities for LGBTQIA+ players and their allies to come together, build camaraderie, and share their passion for the sport.

“Our tournaments are more than just competitions; they are a testament to the strength and spirit of the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies,” Feinberg continued. “This Pride Month, we’ve celebrated every serve, volley, and point played, every fierce on-court outfit, and every post-match drink shared with an opponent, in the spirit of inclusivity and acceptance. And as June ends, our commitment doesn’t. We stand proud with our members and the entire LGBTQIA+ community today and every day.”

The GLTA invites everyone to continue supporting its mission of promoting equality in and through tennis, not just during Pride Month, but all year round.