Tennis field trip! John Isner, Reilly Opelka meet with local students at BNP Paribas Open

Imagine getting an education next door to one of the largest tennis tournaments in the world. For students attending Gerald R. Ford Elementary School, the stars of the sport converge less than a mile away each year at the BNP Paribas Open.

Earlier this week, more than 100 fourth graders enjoyed a field trip to Practice Court 15 to meet with a pair of special guests. As part of a Fila Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, John Isner and Reilly Opelka spoke about their experiences and answered questions. Isner even demonstrated the serve that led him to becoming the ATP’s all-time ace leader.

“Being a dad, I know that discipline and positive influences are really important to kids as they're growing and developing,” Isner told Baseline. “I believe that working hard will allow you to succeed and achieve your dreams.”

Added Opelka, “Inspiring the next generation of young athletes is super important to me, so I love any chance I have to help get kids into the game.”

On their way out, children and accompanying teachers received Fila T-shirts and sunglasses, along with healthy snacks. Tournament organizers also donated racquets.

Opelka is yet to play in 2023, having been sidelined with hip and ankle injuries. Though Isner lost his Indian Wells singles opener to Brandon Nakashima, the 37-year-old reunited with Jack Sock to oust No. 3 seeds Marcelo Arevalo and Jean-Julien Rojer on Friday evening to begin their title defense in doubles. The American duo is seeking its third triumph here since 2018.