IMG Academy Foundation Welcomes Sloane Stephens to Women in Sports Committee

Bradenton, Fla., Sept. 4 (AP) - The IMG Academy Foundation today announced its second class of Women in Sports Committee Scholars and revealed a new addition to the committee roster: former US Open champion and tennis standout Sloane Stephens.

As part of the announcement, six exceptional female student-athletes from around the globe were named scholarship recipients and will begin their IMG Academy journeys this fall. The Women in Sports Committee-chaired by IMG Academy Chief People Operations Officer Lisa Strasman and including sports icons such as broadcaster Cari Champion, film producer Dany Garcia, former college softball coach Sue Enquist, Olympic gold medalist Lindsey Vonn, and now Sloane Stephens-will each mentor and sponsor one scholar.

“These young women represent the very best of what’s possible when talent meets opportunity,” Strasman said. “This program is about opening doors, creating networks, and equipping them to lead on and off the field.”

The 2025 scholar class features:

  • Ximena Gutiérrez García (Tennis) from Chihuahua, Mexico
  • Inaya Iqbal (Tennis) from Oakville, Ontario, Canada
  • Laci Martinez (Softball) from Columbus, Georgia
  • Veronika Niklin (Golf) from Staten Island, New York
  • Trinity Onigbanjo (Softball) from McDonough, Georgia
  • Anala Teemer (Lacrosse) from Long Beach, New York

Each scholar receives full tuition, athletic training, academic support, leadership development, and year-round mentorship from committee members. “Our goal is to empower student-athletes by providing them with the opportunities, access, and support they need to win their future,” said Kate Massey, executive director of the IMG Academy Foundation.

Stephens, a former world No. 3 and 2017 US Open champion, joins the committee at a pivotal moment in her career, balancing her broadcasting duties at the US Open with plans for a tour comeback. Her involvement underscores the Foundation’s commitment to leveraging athlete leadership to foster the next generation of women in sport.