Memphis facility gets national recognition after $30M renovation

By Omer Yusuf – Reporter, Memphis Business Journal

September 3, 2024

The recently renovated Leftwich Tennis Center in Memphis has received a top honor from the United States Tennis Association (USTA).

USTA named Leftwich one of its Featured Facilities of the Year, the organization’s highest recognition for tennis venues.

Leftwich reopened last November following a $30 million renovation completed through a public-private partnership between the City of Memphis, the University of Memphis, and Tennis Memphis.

The facility at 4145 Southern Ave. now includes 12 indoor and 24 outdoor courts across 200,000 square feet. Additional features include covered viewing areas, a pro shop, public locker rooms, a VIP suite, and dedicated space for Tennis Memphis’ after-school programs.

“The Leftwich Tennis Center is a great example of how a well-managed, world-class facility can enhance lives through the sport of tennis,” said Theodore Loehrke, USTA managing director of section partnerships. “Facilities like this are integral to our mission of growing tennis and inspiring healthier communities.”

Leftwich was one of 41 facilities recognized in USTA’s annual Outstanding Facility Awards program, which honors excellence in tennis facility construction and renovation. It won in the Public Courts: Large Tennis Centers category, designated for facilities with 12 or more courts.

The awards were presented at a reception at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York during the 2024 US Open.

Earlier this year, Leftwich also received the Community Impact Award at the Memphis Business Journal’s Building Memphis event and was a finalist in the Best Renovation – Large category.

As part of the recognition, Leftwich will receive a commemorative plaque and an all-weather sign to display at the facility.