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U.S. tennis participation grew by one million players in 2022 with more than 23.6 million playing the sport–the third consecutive year that the sport has seen an increase. This number, when added to the previous two years, represents an increase of 5.9 million, or 33 percent, since the start of 2020. This information was compiled by the Tennis Industry Association, and will be presented in greater detail in the 2023 Tennis National Participation Report available later this month. USTA Chairman of the Board and President Brian Hainline says that this latest increase, and the bigger picture of the last three years, holds two-fold importance for the sport and for Americans as a whole. "The increase in tennis participation for the third year in a row is not only important for the health of our sport, but also for the health and well-being of those who have made the game a part of their lives," Hainline said. "Tennis has a multitude of benefits, ranging from the mental to the physical, and we are excited to help lead the continued growth of a sport that helps players of all ages and ability levels stay active and healthy." The growth and health of the sport was not limited to just participation, as a variety of key efforts and initiatives were focused on increasing access to the game and making the overall tennis experience better for all players. Tennis players on average lived an additional 9.7 years than sedentary individuals. This figure ranked highest among all sports included within the study, beating out soccer by 5 years (4.7), cycling by 6 years (3.7), swimming by 6.3 years (3.4) and jogging by 6.5 years (3.2). Participation in racquet sports, including tennis, reduces risk of all-cause mortality by 47 percent and cardiovascular- related death by 56 percent. The work done by the USTA in 2022 helped bolster both new and returning players of all ages and skill levels. This included continuing support of facilities and public parks, tennis in schools, junior play, and programming such as USTA League and USTA Foundation National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) chapters. USTA, Jan. 12, 2023. ~ Shirley Ferguson TENNIS TITANS | LIFE IN SOLERA | NOVEMBER 2023 | 51