Press & Media
Martin Blackman | Founder & CEO, Athena Sports
Sports Strategist | Global Consultant | Thought Leader
Media Contact
Martin Blackman
📧mblackman@athenasports.net
🌐www.athenasports.net
📍Orlando, FL
📞407-536-8882
Professional Overview
Martin Blackman is one of the most respected minds in global tennis and sports leadership. As the former General Manager of Player Development at the United States Tennis Association (USTA), Martin led a decade-long transformation that ushered in the most successful era of American tennis in 25 years.
Today, as the Founder & CEO of Athena Sports, Martin brings his strategic vision to the world stage—advising national federations, elite academies, startups, and visionary leaders on how to develop talent, build sports infrastructure, and create performance systems that drive long-term impact.
Key Career Highlights
10 Years at the Helm of USTA Player Development
Directed the resurgence of American tennis with historic player success across the ATP and WTA Tours.Global Federation Collaborations
Forged strategic alliances with leading international tennis federations to drive innovation and talent exchange.Collegiate Coaching & Private Academy Leadership
Former Division I head coach and founder of a top-tier academy that produced collegiate and professional athletes.Board-Level Contributor & Consultant
Trusted advisor to sports organizations navigating growth, transition, and innovation.
Media Topics & Opportunities
✔ Sports Leadership & Culture
Insights on team-building, athlete development, and organizational excellence.
✔ Equity & Inclusion in Sport
A trailblazer’s perspective on breaking barriers and shaping a more inclusive future in elite athletics.
✔ Global Tennis Strategy
Advising federations, academies, and entrepreneurs on building player pathways and competitive systems.
✔ Lifestyle, Legacy & Brand Building
The evolving role of athlete identity, personal values, and family legacy in sports business.
Ideal for:
🎙 Podcasts | 📺 TV Commentary | 🎤 Keynotes | 📰 Editorial Features | 📣 Advisory Panels
Personal & Professional Values
Martin’s work is grounded in legacy, leadership, and a deep commitment to community. He has been married for 25 years to Sennait Blackman, an Eritrean-American entrepreneur and co-founder of Athena Sports. Together, they’ve raised four children who share their family’s love for tennis and active living. Martin brings the same spirit of integrity, intentionality, and long-term vision to his work that he brings to his role as a husband, father, and mentor.
Media Highlights
Featured Articles
USTA.com
Martin Blackman Reflects on Legacy of American Tennis Association
August 6, 2024
Martin reflects on the impact of the American Tennis Association (ATA) and his pride in receiving the ATA Ace Award, highlighting the ripple effect of ATA’s legacy in tennis.Tennis.com
“Maybe it’s Time”: Frances Tiafoe, Tommy Paul, and the American Tennis Resurgence
September 1, 2024
Martin discusses the results of USTA’s player development strategy, showcasing the rise of American players like Frances Tiafoe and Tommy Paul.ESPN
The U.S. Men Look More Promising Than They Have in 20 Years
2024
Insights from Martin Blackman on the resurgence of American men’s tennis and his optimism about the growing talent pool in the sport.New York Times
How Black American Tennis Players Built U.S. Stardom: ‘Serena and Beyond’
August 25, 2024
Martin recalls how cultural shifts and strategic development created opportunities for Black players in American tennis.Quality Shot Tennis
American Resurgence: U.S. Tennis Stars Shine at 2024 US Open
2024
Coverage of the historic success of American players at the 2024 US Open, including commentary from Martin Blackman on the depth of U.S. tennis talent.Tennis.com Podcast
Featuring Martin Blackman: A Tennis Odyssey
February 17, 2023
Martin shares his journey in tennis and his passion for mentoring young players, in conversation with Kamau Murray.US Open Tennis Championships
Is a New Wave of Success Breaking for American Tennis?
August 26, 2023
Analysis of the rising stars in American tennis, with commentary from Martin on the evolving USTA strategy.ATP Tour
Ranking the Top American Players Heading into 2024
December 22, 2023
Martin discusses the progress of American players as they prepare for a promising new season.
Notable Mentions
MIT Sloan Management Review
The 10 Most Popular Articles in 2022 (So Far)
Martin’s work is highlighted as an example of leadership innovation in sports.Tennis.com
The Rally: Discussing the Resurgence of Rec Tennis in the U.S.
February 24, 2021
Martin joins a conversation on increasing tennis participation across the U.S.
