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Own the Arena: Getting Ahead, Making a Difference, and Succeeding as the Only One – Essential Lessons from the First Black Woman to Run the U.S. Open
From the former President and CEO of the United States Tennis Association—the first black woman and youngest person ever to hold the position—comes a behind-the-scenes look at the leadership skills involved in hosting the U.S. Open, the largest and most lucrative sports event in the world—lessons that can be applied across business and to any life challenge. One of professional tennis’s Grand Slam Tournaments, the U.S. Open has been described as a fourteen-day Superbowl. This single tennis championship, held annually in New York City, attracts top professionals from around the globe, generates more money than any other sporting event—or any other sport over an entire season—and attracts more than 700,000 attendees and millions of television viewers.
In Own the Arena , Katrina Adams offers a privileged, singular inside look at this sensational global event, while elaborating on what makes tennis the only sport of a lifetime. She opens with the women’s 2018 championship match between Naomi Osaka and Serena Williams that ended in boos. This was Adams’s last year as president and the whole world was watching. How would she respond? How should the press be handled? What needs to be said to Osaka? Serena? What does this break from decorum mean for the Open and the sport?
As Adams shares a wealth of stories from her career and personal life, as well as insights from top tennis professionals, she provides invaluable information on meeting life’s tests both on the tennis court and off. Own the Arena offers fresh perspectives on having presence, being remembered, directing a conversation, and moving boldly in spaces where “you are the only one.” It also covers good sportsmanship—treating others with respect and by being inclusive and open to diverse perspectives. Tennis is said to be 90 percent mental; this book shows how to take the elements of mental fortitude and use them to achieve greatness. By embracing and expressing one’s inner grace and humanity, Adams shows, you can own the arena.
In Own the Arena , Katrina Adams offers a privileged, singular inside look at this sensational global event, while elaborating on what makes tennis the only sport of a lifetime. She opens with the women’s 2018 championship match between Naomi Osaka and Serena Williams that ended in boos. This was Adams’s last year as president and the whole world was watching. How would she respond? How should the press be handled? What needs to be said to Osaka? Serena? What does this break from decorum mean for the Open and the sport?
As Adams shares a wealth of stories from her career and personal life, as well as insights from top tennis professionals, she provides invaluable information on meeting life’s tests both on the tennis court and off. Own the Arena offers fresh perspectives on having presence, being remembered, directing a conversation, and moving boldly in spaces where “you are the only one.” It also covers good sportsmanship—treating others with respect and by being inclusive and open to diverse perspectives. Tennis is said to be 90 percent mental; this book shows how to take the elements of mental fortitude and use them to achieve greatness. By embracing and expressing one’s inner grace and humanity, Adams shows, you can own the arena.
288 pages, Paperback
Published February 8, 2022
About the author
Katrina M. Adams
1 book2 followersWith an outstanding track record in leading, innovating and collaborating Katrina Adams is a woman of many firsts. The first African American to lead the United States Tennis Association (USTA), the first two term Chairman and President of said organization and the first former player to hold that honor.
As the youngest person to hold the responsibility of $300 million+ revenue while representing excellence in sport, Adams has showcased her ability to impact, influence and make sound business decisions while navigating a plethora of moving parts and 700,000+ members.
Under her tutelage the USTA achieved a number of major milestones, including the opening of the 100 court USTA National Campus in Orlando, the strategic transformation of the $600 million USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, N.Y. and an unprecedented outreach effort into underserved communities in an effort to share the sport of tennis with more people.
Having attended Northwestern University and led her team to a Big Ten Championship in 1986 and partnered with Diane Donnelly to win the 1987 NCAA Doubles Championship, Adams learned early on, the importance of teamwork. A familiar face in sports commentary, as a professional player Adams competed for 12 years on the WTA Tour, winning 20 career doubles titles and reaching the quarterfinals or better in doubles at all four Grand Slam events. By operating at the highest level in sport and business she has been able to lead successive boards in setting clearly defined strategies to further the organizations’ missions and ensure that management are afforded the tools needed to execute and excel.
Adams sheer determination and hard work in Tennis, leadership and philanthropy has earned her many accolades including: being named on Adweek magazine’s “Most Powerful Women in Sports” list twice (2016 and 2017), Forbes magazine’s “Most Powerful Women in Sports” list in 2017 and Ebony magazine’s “Power 100” list.
As vice president of the prestigious International Tennis Federation, Chairman of the Billie Jean King Cup Committee, Chairman of the Gender Equality in Tennis Committee and the Executive Director of the Harlem Junior Tennis and Education program, Adams believes this is just the beginning. She has branched into the private sector as a Board a member of Pivotal Acquisition Corp III and as an Advisory Board Member of Athletes Unlimited. Having served an unprecedented two consecutive terms as USTA Chairman and President, Adams served on that board until 2005-2020.
As the youngest person to hold the responsibility of $300 million+ revenue while representing excellence in sport, Adams has showcased her ability to impact, influence and make sound business decisions while navigating a plethora of moving parts and 700,000+ members.
Under her tutelage the USTA achieved a number of major milestones, including the opening of the 100 court USTA National Campus in Orlando, the strategic transformation of the $600 million USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, N.Y. and an unprecedented outreach effort into underserved communities in an effort to share the sport of tennis with more people.
Having attended Northwestern University and led her team to a Big Ten Championship in 1986 and partnered with Diane Donnelly to win the 1987 NCAA Doubles Championship, Adams learned early on, the importance of teamwork. A familiar face in sports commentary, as a professional player Adams competed for 12 years on the WTA Tour, winning 20 career doubles titles and reaching the quarterfinals or better in doubles at all four Grand Slam events. By operating at the highest level in sport and business she has been able to lead successive boards in setting clearly defined strategies to further the organizations’ missions and ensure that management are afforded the tools needed to execute and excel.
Adams sheer determination and hard work in Tennis, leadership and philanthropy has earned her many accolades including: being named on Adweek magazine’s “Most Powerful Women in Sports” list twice (2016 and 2017), Forbes magazine’s “Most Powerful Women in Sports” list in 2017 and Ebony magazine’s “Power 100” list.
As vice president of the prestigious International Tennis Federation, Chairman of the Billie Jean King Cup Committee, Chairman of the Gender Equality in Tennis Committee and the Executive Director of the Harlem Junior Tennis and Education program, Adams believes this is just the beginning. She has branched into the private sector as a Board a member of Pivotal Acquisition Corp III and as an Advisory Board Member of Athletes Unlimited. Having served an unprecedented two consecutive terms as USTA Chairman and President, Adams served on that board until 2005-2020.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
April 1, 2021
Katrina Adams shares her experiences from her days competing on the tennis court to becoming the first African-American and the youngest person ever to serve as President and CEO of the United States Tennis Association (USTA).
Her role models include Althea Gibson and Arthur Ashe and now Katrina has become a role model herself. Her accomplishments are impressive and detailed in Own the Arena: Getting Ahead, Making a Difference, and Succeeding as the Only One.
A series of interesting stories includes a fascinating behind the scenes look at what it takes to run the U.S. Open Championships. During her time leading the USTA, the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, home of the U.S. Open, underwent a massive, multi-million dollar enhancement. Adams puts you right on center court with the world’s top players including the drama of the U.S. Open Women’s Finals in 2018 when Naomi Osaka defeated Serena Williams.
As a rising junior player, successful college player and ultimately competing on the Women’s professional tour, Adams had the support and encouragement of a strong family unit and many caring coaches and extended family. But as she writes, she was often the only one "who looked like me,” which made her journey a challenging one. This awareness developed into a mission to create opportunities for African American youth and champion diversity.
If you have an interest in the sport of tennis and an interest in learning more about an inspiring woman who has broken barriers, check out Own the Arena.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
Her role models include Althea Gibson and Arthur Ashe and now Katrina has become a role model herself. Her accomplishments are impressive and detailed in Own the Arena: Getting Ahead, Making a Difference, and Succeeding as the Only One.
A series of interesting stories includes a fascinating behind the scenes look at what it takes to run the U.S. Open Championships. During her time leading the USTA, the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, home of the U.S. Open, underwent a massive, multi-million dollar enhancement. Adams puts you right on center court with the world’s top players including the drama of the U.S. Open Women’s Finals in 2018 when Naomi Osaka defeated Serena Williams.
As a rising junior player, successful college player and ultimately competing on the Women’s professional tour, Adams had the support and encouragement of a strong family unit and many caring coaches and extended family. But as she writes, she was often the only one "who looked like me,” which made her journey a challenging one. This awareness developed into a mission to create opportunities for African American youth and champion diversity.
If you have an interest in the sport of tennis and an interest in learning more about an inspiring woman who has broken barriers, check out Own the Arena.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
August 5, 2022
In tennis, the U.S. Open is not only one of the four Grand Slam events, but it has also been compared to the Super Bowl in terms of its power to attract fans, celebrities, top players and generate money. Katrina Adams provides readers of this book a first-hand look at not only the action on the court, but an inside look at what goes into putting on an event like the U.S. Open, well beyond the two weeks of tennis.
Adams draws on her experience as a college and professional player and later her term as President of the United States Tennis Association (USTA) to not only showcase the U.S. Open but also provide readers with glimpses into her life, both personally and professionally. Her success in both areas was due to many factors and some of those she shares with readers in such a way that no matter one’s profession and athletic interests, if any, they can be used to achieve one’s goals.
Being the first Black woman to hold the position, Adams faced many challenges as one might expect. She speaks eloquently and passionately about overcoming racism and sexism in the sport and does so without bitterness. Indeed, she talks glowingly about those who helped her along the way and shared the same passion. One excellent example is Billie Jean King, who she credits as being a pioneer in brining many issues to the forefront for women’s tennis such as equal pay and facilities. Her dialogue on these social issues is never condemning – she does include white men when she talks about diversity and welcoming all views – and a reader will come away with a new sense of awareness for these matters.
As for the tennis, her career as a player is covered adequately, but her career in the management of the USTA is much better. It may be due to recency, or maybe the accomplishments, but for both topics, a reader will learn much about Adams and her work at the USTA and U.S. Open. An excellent story, for just one of many examples, is how her culinary team makes sure that there is appropriate food for all tastes and cultures of VIPs who visit those suites during the tourney. One particular guest whose taste for Southern food resulted in collard greens and fried chicken made for a very touching story.
Accounts like this are what make this book an enjoyable read for any tennis fan, whether or not they are familiar with Adams’ career either as a player or as an executive. The tips are all applicable to her work in both areas and will be for a reader as well.
I wish to thank Amistad for providing a copy of the book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Adams draws on her experience as a college and professional player and later her term as President of the United States Tennis Association (USTA) to not only showcase the U.S. Open but also provide readers with glimpses into her life, both personally and professionally. Her success in both areas was due to many factors and some of those she shares with readers in such a way that no matter one’s profession and athletic interests, if any, they can be used to achieve one’s goals.
Being the first Black woman to hold the position, Adams faced many challenges as one might expect. She speaks eloquently and passionately about overcoming racism and sexism in the sport and does so without bitterness. Indeed, she talks glowingly about those who helped her along the way and shared the same passion. One excellent example is Billie Jean King, who she credits as being a pioneer in brining many issues to the forefront for women’s tennis such as equal pay and facilities. Her dialogue on these social issues is never condemning – she does include white men when she talks about diversity and welcoming all views – and a reader will come away with a new sense of awareness for these matters.
As for the tennis, her career as a player is covered adequately, but her career in the management of the USTA is much better. It may be due to recency, or maybe the accomplishments, but for both topics, a reader will learn much about Adams and her work at the USTA and U.S. Open. An excellent story, for just one of many examples, is how her culinary team makes sure that there is appropriate food for all tastes and cultures of VIPs who visit those suites during the tourney. One particular guest whose taste for Southern food resulted in collard greens and fried chicken made for a very touching story.
Accounts like this are what make this book an enjoyable read for any tennis fan, whether or not they are familiar with Adams’ career either as a player or as an executive. The tips are all applicable to her work in both areas and will be for a reader as well.
I wish to thank Amistad for providing a copy of the book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 9, 2021
I enjoyed learning about her tennis career and her leadership of the USTA and impact of the sport. I am sorry I missed the opportunity to hear her presentation of this book a few weeks back at XS Tennis. Meeting her in person may have added more depth. At the conclusion she scratched the surface in my opinion. She covered the facts but left me wanting to know more about her personally.
August 5, 2022
In tennis, the U.S. Open is not only one of the four Grand Slam events, but it has also been compared to the Super Bowl in terms of its power to attract fans, celebrities, top players and generate money. Katrina Adams provides readers of this book a first-hand look at not only the action on the court, but an in
side look at what goes into putting on an event like the U.S. Open, well beyond the two weeks of tennis.
Adams draws on her experience as a college and professional player and later her term as President of the United States Tennis Association (USTA) to not only showcase the U.S. Open but also provide readers with glimpses into her life, both personally and professionally. Her success in both areas was due to many factors and some of those she shares with readers in such a way that no matter one’s profession and athletic interests, if any, they can be used to achieve one’s goals.
Being the first Black woman to hold the position, Adams faced many challenges as one might expect. She speaks eloquently and passionately about overcoming racism and sexism in the sport and does so without bitterness. Indeed, she talks glowingly about those who helped her along the way and shared the same passion. One excellent example is Billie Jean King, who she credits as being a pioneer in brining many issues to the forefront for women’s tennis such as equal pay and facilities. Her dialogue on these social issues is never condemning – she does include white men when she talks about diversity and welcoming all views – and a reader will come away with a new sense of awareness for these matters.
As for the tennis, her career as a player is covered adequately, but her career in the management of the USTA is much better. It may be due to recency, or maybe the accomplishments, but for both topics, a reader will learn much about Adams and her work at the USTA and U.S. Open. An excellent story, for just one of many examples, is how her culinary team makes sure that there is appropriate food for all tastes and cultures of VIPs who visit those suites during the tourney. One particular guest whose taste for Southern food resulted in collard greens and fried chicken made for a very touching story.
Accounts like this are what make this book an enjoyable read for any tennis fan, whether or not they are familiar with Adams’ career either as a player or as an executive. The tips are all applicable to her work in both areas and will be for a reader as well.
I wish to thank Amistad for providing a copy of the book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
side look at what goes into putting on an event like the U.S. Open, well beyond the two weeks of tennis.
Adams draws on her experience as a college and professional player and later her term as President of the United States Tennis Association (USTA) to not only showcase the U.S. Open but also provide readers with glimpses into her life, both personally and professionally. Her success in both areas was due to many factors and some of those she shares with readers in such a way that no matter one’s profession and athletic interests, if any, they can be used to achieve one’s goals.
Being the first Black woman to hold the position, Adams faced many challenges as one might expect. She speaks eloquently and passionately about overcoming racism and sexism in the sport and does so without bitterness. Indeed, she talks glowingly about those who helped her along the way and shared the same passion. One excellent example is Billie Jean King, who she credits as being a pioneer in brining many issues to the forefront for women’s tennis such as equal pay and facilities. Her dialogue on these social issues is never condemning – she does include white men when she talks about diversity and welcoming all views – and a reader will come away with a new sense of awareness for these matters.
As for the tennis, her career as a player is covered adequately, but her career in the management of the USTA is much better. It may be due to recency, or maybe the accomplishments, but for both topics, a reader will learn much about Adams and her work at the USTA and U.S. Open. An excellent story, for just one of many examples, is how her culinary team makes sure that there is appropriate food for all tastes and cultures of VIPs who visit those suites during the tourney. One particular guest whose taste for Southern food resulted in collard greens and fried chicken made for a very touching story.
Accounts like this are what make this book an enjoyable read for any tennis fan, whether or not they are familiar with Adams’ career either as a player or as an executive. The tips are all applicable to her work in both areas and will be for a reader as well.
I wish to thank Amistad for providing a copy of the book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 2, 2021
This book is not really a biography, autobiography, or memoir. It really about using the life skills tennis provided the author—from the beginning of her career at age six through today. Tennis prepared her for a lot of different scenarios and situations. I love how the author talked about how she discovered a love of tennis and how she loved tennis balls because they were so fuzzy. She soon realized that when she played tennis, she was a fast learner and could do anything her coach taught her. There are parts where she talks about her sense of quiet inner confidence, yet there were other parts where she broke into hives giving the biggest speech of her career.
She had a whole passage I enjoyed reading, "That sense of owning the arena isn't entitlement, it's not arrogance, and it doesn't announce itself with brashness. It's more like a quiet confidence. I've had a silent-yet-unwavering belief in myself as a leader, but I'm well aware that it's not the way everyone sees me. Intentionally or not, people judge me differently as a woman of color. I must hold myself to a much higher standard than someone else in my position, never allowing myself to relax or let my guard down while I'm in the public eye. I can sometimes present as guarded to prevent people from coming at me, being micro-aggressive or beyond. Unfortunately, in America, most white people's rare exposure to black people is through news programs, not on a regular person level."
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://zibbyowens.com/transcript/kat...
She had a whole passage I enjoyed reading, "That sense of owning the arena isn't entitlement, it's not arrogance, and it doesn't announce itself with brashness. It's more like a quiet confidence. I've had a silent-yet-unwavering belief in myself as a leader, but I'm well aware that it's not the way everyone sees me. Intentionally or not, people judge me differently as a woman of color. I must hold myself to a much higher standard than someone else in my position, never allowing myself to relax or let my guard down while I'm in the public eye. I can sometimes present as guarded to prevent people from coming at me, being micro-aggressive or beyond. Unfortunately, in America, most white people's rare exposure to black people is through news programs, not on a regular person level."
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://zibbyowens.com/transcript/kat...
March 12, 2021
Excellent Read especially for the Sports Management professional. It gives you a glimpse of Tennis Operations and considerations for planning sports events, entertaining VIP guests, and how to graciously correct playing the wrong country's national anthem. I enjoyed it.
June 20, 2021
Listened to this on my way to work via Audible. Inspiring and I learned a lot about the different tennis associations. I loved her 12 match points for ways to thrive: own the table; own your legacy....
March 28, 2024
This book gives you front seat to the world of tennis and the bureaucracy that we would normally not be privy to.
It is interesting and slightly controversial with its undertones of racism, bias, class, and misogyny.
An interesting read, nonetheless.
It is interesting and slightly controversial with its undertones of racism, bias, class, and misogyny.
An interesting read, nonetheless.
February 1, 2022
This is a book for tennis fans and anyone looking to up their game in business and life!
Read
May 28, 2021I May Be Slightly Biased As I Know Ms. Adams Somewhat Personally!!!
I met her as she had my band come in to perform circa 2005-ish when she was the Executive Director of the Harlem Junior Tennis & Education program. We were a bunch of no-name NJ musician types & she greeted us like we were the Rolling Stones. It was easy to see that she carries herself with exquisite grace & charm.
Many years later, around the 2016 time frame she again hired my latest band to perform at their annual fundraiser in New York City that is populated with stars from the sports, entertainment, & news media world to bring in dollars to support that organization.
She was the same woman, yet she was much more refined as she was soon to become the 1st woman to be the USTA president of that powerful tennis organization. She looked every bit the executive as her star power was truly rising.
I knew she was a former tennis player since I am a tennis lover, but she was not able to ascend to the level of a Grand Slam champion where all the accolades are lauded down upon you. However reading where she came from, how she developed a love for the game, the life journey it took her on, & the people who shaped her life was awe inspiring.
As great as being a player meant to her, it's her role in leadership positions where she has truly shined. She's broken down barriers, kicked in doors, & humbly admits to things she could've done better.
Knowing that I am an avid reader, a friend of mine's said she needed a good book to read. I immediately ordered a 2nd book & gave it to her as a gift because she loves tennis as I do & her dad in his late 60's, still gets out on the courts to play the game. I knew she would appreciate it.
Thanks for a great story, a great life, & continued success in all you do Ms. Adams, you're village is watching & supporting you fully!!!
I met her as she had my band come in to perform circa 2005-ish when she was the Executive Director of the Harlem Junior Tennis & Education program. We were a bunch of no-name NJ musician types & she greeted us like we were the Rolling Stones. It was easy to see that she carries herself with exquisite grace & charm.
Many years later, around the 2016 time frame she again hired my latest band to perform at their annual fundraiser in New York City that is populated with stars from the sports, entertainment, & news media world to bring in dollars to support that organization.
She was the same woman, yet she was much more refined as she was soon to become the 1st woman to be the USTA president of that powerful tennis organization. She looked every bit the executive as her star power was truly rising.
I knew she was a former tennis player since I am a tennis lover, but she was not able to ascend to the level of a Grand Slam champion where all the accolades are lauded down upon you. However reading where she came from, how she developed a love for the game, the life journey it took her on, & the people who shaped her life was awe inspiring.
As great as being a player meant to her, it's her role in leadership positions where she has truly shined. She's broken down barriers, kicked in doors, & humbly admits to things she could've done better.
Knowing that I am an avid reader, a friend of mine's said she needed a good book to read. I immediately ordered a 2nd book & gave it to her as a gift because she loves tennis as I do & her dad in his late 60's, still gets out on the courts to play the game. I knew she would appreciate it.
Thanks for a great story, a great life, & continued success in all you do Ms. Adams, you're village is watching & supporting you fully!!!
May 16, 2023
If you love tennis, this is a great read. I've seen Katrina on TV and at tournaments. She has a presence; and it's fun to get behind the scenes and learn how she earned and owns her space. Great job, Katrina!
March 8, 2021
An African-American woman in a sports leadership role sharing how she rose to high-level positions on the shoulders of others and decided to pay it forward championing diversity and inclusion.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews