Former WTA world #1 doubles star and seven-time Grand Slam doubles champion Liezel Huber will join the NYJTL Cary Leeds Center as Director of Tennis and Development on June 1, it was announced today by General Manager Skip Hartman.
“We are thrilled to have Liezel on our Leadership Team,” said Executive Director of Tennis Rick Ferman. “She brings all of the positive attributes of a world-class player, and she is widely respected as a consummate sportswoman and outspoken advocate for providing tennis opportunities for children.”
Following her final Grand Slam match at the Australian Open in January, Huber, 40, is announcing her formal retirement from the professional tour after a standout career spanning 25 years during which she was ranked world #1 in doubles for 199 weeks and won 57 WTA doubles titles.
The three-time Olympian brings unique experience to the NYJTL Cary Leeds Center High Performance coaching team providing an outstanding example as a player and role model. Huber has been recognized with WTA Player Services awards and the Humanitarian Award from Sir Richard Branson. She is currently serving a two-year term on the USTA Board of Directors.
“I became a tennis player to have a platform to stand on to make a difference,” said Huber. “Now I have been given this opportunity to pay it forward. Tennis has brought me so much happiness. I have enjoyed all the ups and downs in my career. Now I look forward to the next chapter.”
Huber’s husband, Tony, is a highly regarded WTA coach and will also play a major role in High Performance programming at the Cary Leeds Center.
“World-class tennis talent will help us raise our game and profile,” said NYJTL CEO, Guimaraes, “I am excited about having both Liezel and Tony join the team.”
Cary Leeds Center tennis programs provide a junior development pathway from beginners to advanced players with collegiate and professional aspirations, along with a full range of adult programs. The $26.5 million Cary Leeds Center in the Bronx is the flagship home of NYJTL.