On August 26, 2009 Nike, Inc. unveiled its US Open apparel and footwear for tennis supertstars Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams at a Nike-built, regulation sized tennis court in the heart of Manhattan. At the temporary court, located at 23rd Street and Broadway, tennis fans and youth from New York Junior Tennis League, Athletes for Charity, New York City Parks Foundation and Mentoring USA were treated to inspirational tennis tips and guidance from Federer, Nadal, Williams, and McEnroe. A youth representative from each organization had a chance to win a donation fortheir local group by returning balls from a tennis simulator set to mimic pro shots. Nathaniel Kelliehan of the High School of Sports Management was elected to compete on behalf of Athletes for Charity. The chance to hit against the simulator was also open to the public. “This is an exciting opportunity to bring the thrill of the US Open directly to tennis fans in New York,” said tennis icon John McEnroe. “Providing a platform for kids to experience the beauty and power of this game and meet their tennis icons is incredible.”
