Renowned advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in tennis, Ian Pearson-Brown, has been honoured with the prestigious LTA President’s Award at the LTA Tennis Awards, presented by Lexus. Pearson-Brown, who serves as the co-chair of the recently formed Pride in Tennis, was celebrated for his unwavering dedication to promoting the participation of the LGBTQ+ community in the sport.
During the awards ceremony at the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton, Pearson-Brown expressed his deep emotional gratitude, reflecting on the remarkable progress that has been made in recent years. Recalling the launch of Pride in Tennis in February 2022, the 42-year-old highlighted the lack of visibility for the LGBTQ+ community in tennis at the time. However, he also remarked on the significant strides that have since been made, crediting the LTA and Pride in Tennis for their impactful efforts in promoting a message of inclusivity and acceptance.
The LTA Tennis Awards, presented by Lexus, is an annual event that seeks to recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals in the tennis community across Britain. Developed in 2015, the awards serve to acknowledge the invaluable work of volunteers, coaches, officials, and players who have dedicated their time and energy to the ongoing development and advancement of the sport.
This year’s recipients, selected from over 2,200 nominations spanning 15 different categories, have been commended for their exceptional contributions to the sport of tennis. Among them is Pearson-Brown, who, in addition to his advocacy work, is a committed tennis coach and an active member of the Blaydon Tennis Club.
In his acceptance speech, Pearson-Brown emphasised the importance of LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport, citing the prevalent health inequalities and discriminatory barriers faced by the community. Drawing from his personal experiences as a young queer athlete, he highlighted the mental health challenges and instances of discrimination that he encountered, underscoring the profound impact of creating an environment of acceptance and support for LGBTQ+ individuals in sports.
The President of the LTA, Sandi Procter, expressed her admiration for the incredible dedication of all the winners and nominees, acknowledging the indispensable role played by volunteers, officials, and coaches in enriching the tennis community. She further emphasised the significance of the awards in recognising the extraordinary contributions of individuals and venues in promoting accessibility and inclusivity in tennis.
The annual LTA Tennis Awards, presented by Lexus, stand as a testament to the unwavering spirit and dedication of individuals like Ian Pearson-Brown, whose advocacy and tenacity have played a pivotal role in fostering a more inclusive and welcoming environment for the LGBTQ+ community in the world of tennis.