Venus Williams Gives Back to Tennis in Canada

Tennis Canada announced Wednesday that Venus Williams will be making a charitable donation of $25,000 to support Tennis Matters, the fundraising arm of the national sport organization.

“I really wanted to do something to give back to the tennis community in Canada,” Williams said. “It was unfortunate that I was not able to compete at Rogers Cup as I was looking forward to playing in Toronto. This gift is one way that I can still be connected to this amazing event, and help ensure that our great game is introduced to children with appropriate equipment.”

The former world No. 1 was scheduled to participate in Rogers Cup presented by National Bank, but was diagnosed with a viral illness on August 7, 2011 and withdrew before her first match.

Williams’ donation to Tennis Matters will help Tennis Canada deliver on an important mandate to grow participation across Canada. More specifically, the contribution will support the “Let’s Make Tennis Matter for Kids” campaign, providing communities across Canada with ‘right-sized’ tennis equipment and programming so young children can enjoy the game of tennis.

“We are very grateful to Venus for her generosity,” stated Michael Downey, president and chief executive officer of Tennis Canada. “This gesture illustrates her true class and will hopefully be an inspiration to children across the country to pick up a racquet and give the game a try.”

The seven-time Grand Slam singles champion was excited about being in Toronto for Rogers Cup, and fans had a chance to see Williams at the official draw and pre-tournament celebrity tennis events that took place August 5-6 at Rexall Centre.