The Tennis Channel

 The USTA has no idea how they demoralize some players.  Players who have put their hearts and hopes into playing pro one day and then to realize that you must be rich to play.  You have not sat and watched a 19 year old go through depression, withdrawal symptoms and and overall a let-down just because he is not rich and cannot play this sport since he picked up a racket at age 11.

I think the USTA should revamp its role in helping players who actually have the heart and skill and desire to want to play pro tennis.  This is really not a game for everyone.  It is a game for the RICH only.  Not every player will be ranked #1 in the juniors so you can get a sponsor.  Some who do not get a sponsor can actually play.  It is time for the USTA to realize this.  Before the world blows up, I and I am sure others would like to see a change.

Hello Longhair,

 I just saw your post and you are so right about having to be rich or almost rich.  The fact is that all of the kids looking to be a pro cannot afford the necessities, and most importantly a coach that is very costly because of the schedules most of the kids have because they have to go to school.  The coaches are costly and they are training these kids every day in the morning and again after school.  Both for about four hours each.  That's what the kids that can afford lessons cost.  The thing about your post is that there are many programs for kids that are especially good and there are many USTA reps at the nationals and other special events to watch for the kids that look like they will someday become a pro. 

Surfice it to say, there are many programs.  And, the USTA does have programs for beginners through to the best players. 

I'm really sorry that you feel that way about the USTA.  Have you ever been to a tennis tournament?  Usually they are far better than pro tournaments. Those kids are amazing whether they win or lose. 

You should really check out a tournament and talk to a tennis parent who will tell you the trials of getting the child to the pros.  It's hard work and these kids who want to be pros work so hard to make it past the juniors.  The USTA is there to help those special ones;

 

Thanks taz.  There are always opporutnties for those with talent and determination.

I agree...if someone has both the talent AND the drive, there is always an opportunity. And although ulimately hard work and dedication will prevail, there has to be some degree of innate natural ability. Similarly there are lots of players out there who have a lot of natural talent but don't work hard enough to make it to the big leagues. And also, there are a great many tennis students out there, who are in training. But the pro tennis tour has only room for a very tiny percentage of those aspiring players. Ultimately it's the values from all that training that a person can apply to life outside of tennis that matter, even if they cannot make it to the pros. The ability to be disciplined, to work smarter as well as harder, and to stay fit, are all good things to learn in a variety of avenues, not only sports.