USTA Launches First Training Program for Safe Tennis Coaches

• USTA launches a program for training coaches with an emphasis on safety
• The goal of the program is to engage 35 million players by 2035
• Craig Miller emphasized the importance of a safe environment for players

On September 13, 2025, the USTA announced the start of its first comprehensive training program for coaches, which has become a priority more than a year after the release of the players' safety recommendations. This review provided recommendations regarding the improvement of player protections from abuse, including sexual violence.

The main goal of the new USTA initiative for coach training, Craig Miller stated in a video interview, is to create a safe environment for all players. Now USTA has the opportunity to ensure that all certified coaches undergo a criminal background check and can identify, respond to abuse, and prevent it.

Currently, there are between 25,000 to 30,000 coaches in the U.S., and USTA plans to increase that number to 75,000-100,000. This includes both parents who teach their children and professional coaches who work with athletes at the U.S. Open Championship, which starts on August 24.

This initiative is connected to USTA's goal of engaging 35 million people in tennis in the U.S. by 2035.

Miller noted that USTA previously did not focus on coach training, and this is their corresponding responsibility. He also emphasized the importance of engaging youth so they consider a career in tennis.

In June 2024, a report was presented on 62 pages, which included 19 specific recommendations for improving player safety. This report was published less than two months after the tennis player received $9 million in compensation from a federal court in Florida, suing USTA for their failure to protect her from sexual violence by a coach at one of the training centers.

Tags: USA/Sport/Tennis