"It's heartwarming": Ahn encouraged by USTA's commitment to grassroots

On Thursday, CEO and Executive Director of the USTA Mike Dowse announced the organization will be pouring $50 million into relieving and rebuilding the tennis industry. The second-phase of the all-encompassing plan will support facility owners, instructors, local clubs and grassroots organizations.

American Kristie Ahn opened up about the significance of this commitment, having relied on local clubs during her junior development.

"It's really great to see the USTA continuing to support these programs, these small clubs," Ahn said on Tennis Channel Live Thursday. "To be able to see that is really heartwarming for sure."

As a successful junior tennis player, Ahn spent much of her time practicing at local clubs, such as Mountain Lakes Racquet Club in New Jersey.

"It's so great to see the USTA giving so much money to the smaller clubs. You know players can develop from anywhere across this country and we've seen success," the 27-year-old added.

Ahn opted to pursue the college pathway at Stanford before turning professional. Last year, the Flushing Meadows native achieved her best major result in reaching the round of 16 at the US Open, and is currently a member of the WTA Players' Council.