Celebrating Excellence: The 2026 Tom Perrotta Prize for Tennis Journalism is Now Open
For aspiring tennis journalists aged 35 and under, a significant opportunity has arrived. Entries are now being accepted for the 2026 Tom Perrotta Prize for Tennis Journalism, an annual award recognizing outstanding writing in the sport.
Honoring a Legacy in Tennis Journalism
The Tom Perrotta Prize is a tribute to the impactful work of American writer Tom Perrotta, whose career was tragically cut short at the age of 44. The prize acknowledges and supports emerging voices continuing his legacy of insightful tennis journalism.
Prize Details and Eligibility
The annual award, now in its fifth year, offers a $2,000 cash prize to the winner. $500 will be provided to assist with travel expenses to accept the award in person. The presentation will take place in New York on the eve of the US Open.
To be eligible, applicants must be 35 years of age or younger. Submissions require a brief CV and two recent published writing samples. Articles submitted in languages other than English must be accompanied by an English translation.
What the Judges are Looking For
Entries will be evaluated by a panel of judges from the International Tennis Writers’ Association (ITWA) in a blind review process. Applicants are similarly asked to detail how the prize money would contribute to their career development.
Who is Behind the Prize?
The Tom Perrotta Prize is co-sponsored by a consortium of leading tennis organizations: the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP), the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA), the International Tennis Federation (ITF), and the International Tennis Writers’ Association.
Essential Dates and Submission Details
The deadline for submissions is midnight (EST) on April 20, 2026. All materials should be sent to [email protected].
Pro Tip:
Ensure your writing samples showcase your best work and demonstrate a strong understanding of tennis. A compelling explanation of how the prize will advance your career is also crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What type of writing is eligible?
A: Any form of published tennis journalism is eligible, including articles, features, and analysis.
Q: Is translation required for submissions in languages other than English?
A: Yes, all articles must be accompanied by an English translation.
Q: Is attendance at the award ceremony mandatory?
A: Yes, winners are expected to accept the prize in person.
Q: Who are the previous winners of the Tom Perrotta Prize?
A: Information on previous winners is not available in the provided sources.
Q: What are the judging criteria?
A: The judging criteria are not explicitly detailed, but submissions will be evaluated by the ITWA judges for excellence in tennis journalism.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain recognition for your tennis journalism. Submit your work and contribute to the continuing legacy of Tom Perrotta!
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