From the Court to the Garden: Be Legendary Lights Up NYC
Earlier this month, Be Legendary marked its largest activation to date in New York City. The event was an inspiring capstone to the global youth program’s inaugural year, underscoring that the journey to greatness is shaped not only by athletic skills, but by mentorship, character, and community.
The energy at the Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning was unmistakable as two of the sport’s most respected icons—Hall of Famers Tracy Austin and Gigi Fernandez—stepped onto the court not just as champions of the game, but as mentors committed to guiding the next generation.
90 Athletes. Five Boroughs. One Community.
Ninety student-athletes from all five New York City boroughs came together for the event, representing three National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) chapters:
- Kings County Tennis League (Brooklyn)
- Harlem Junior Tennis & Education Program
- New York Junior Tennis & Learning (Bronx)
Gigi and Tracy immersed themselves into the experience, sharing stories from their journeys, offering individualized instruction, and making connections with each student on the court.
More Than a Game: Building Character
Be Legendary is about developing champions from within. In the lead-up to the event, coaches facilitated reflective classroom sessions that explored the personal qualities defining Tracy and Gigi’s careers. As a result, young athletes walked away with a deeper understanding of two core values:
Positive Attitude – Understanding the power of resilience and cultivating a mindset that stays strong both on and off the court.
Off the court, students also prepared for the day’s finale: a candid Q&A that gave them a rare opportunity to ask their most pressing questions about the discipline and skills required to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
Competitive Spirit - Learning to dig deep, embrace the challenges, and give their best effort when it matters most.
Experiencing Excellence at "The World's Most Famous Arena"
The inspiration carried into day two, when Be Legendary participants and their families attended The Garden Cup at Madison Square Garden. Watching elite players Aryna Sabalenka, Naomi Osaka, Tommy Paul, and Nick Kyrgios compete on one of the world’s biggest stages brought the lessons of the previous day to life.
The experience was deepened through a conversation with 10-time ATP champion and commentator Sam Querrey, who offered an inside look at the realities of professional tennis.
A highlight for the students came when they saw themselves on the jumbotron as Tracy Austin delivered a special shoutout from center court—an unforgettable reminder that they belong on stages like this.
Be Legendary continues its global journey in 2026, beginning in Melbourne at the Australian Open in January. Follow along throughout the year as we celebrate the moments, lessons, and connections that inspire the next generation to Be Legendary.
