USTA unveils refurbished courts in Rock Island, Ill., in honor of Madison Keys' AO win

The USTA, along with the City of Rock Island, USTA Missouri Valley and Madison Keys’ Kindness Wins Foundation, unveiled refurbished tennis courts in Keys’ hometown of Rock Island, Ill., on Monday. The effort to refurbish the three tennis courts at Rock Island’s Mel McKay Park was funded by the USTA in honor of Keys’ maiden Grand Slam singles title at the 2025 Australian Open.

“Madison is an incredible champion and a true role model for so many young players,” said Brian Vahaly, Chairman of the Board and President, interim Co-CEO, USTA. “Honoring her Australian Open victory by giving back to the community where her journey began feels deeply special. These courts will give young players across the region a place to play, compete and dream, serving as a lasting reminder of Madison’s journey and the best of what our sport represents.”

Monday’s event, which was attended by Rock Island leaders and USTA representatives, included a court dedication and a youth tennis clinic led by the Quad Cities Tennis Club.

The event also featured a pre-recorded video message from Keys, who was represented at the event by her mother, Christine, a Rock Island resident who currently serves as the president of Keys’ Kindness Wins Foundation. The foundation provided giveaways, including signed pictures of Keys with her Australian Open trophy.

“It means a lot to me to be able to make a lasting impact in the tennis community in my hometown, especially after the memorable year that I have had. I’m so grateful that the USTA chose to do this in my honor,” said Keys.

“Providing youth access to sports is one of my main goals for Kindness Wins so I’m excited that tennis players across the Quad Cities will have access to really great courts to grow the sport at all levels.”