Switzerland's Martina Hingis signs autographs after being honored for the Meredith Inspiration Award during the third round of the Family Circle Cup.
Martina Hingis added yet another accolade by receiving the Meredith Inspiration award.
Martina Hingis on Thursday was honored with the Meredith Inspiration Award, given by the publisher of Family Circle magazine to a professional athlete who has inspired women around the world.
Now 26 and two years into her return to the tour, the Swiss player is ranked No. 6 in the world, although she missed playing in Family Circle Cup in Charleston this week because of a hip injury that she said would take about a month to heal.
“Martina Hingis is often recognized for her achievements on the tennis court but today we want to celebrate her humanitarian efforts off court that serve as an inspiration to us all,” says Nancy Weber, Chief Marketing Officer, Meredith Corporation. “She truly understands the importance of giving back and there have been many organizations over the years that have benefited from her generosity. Through her efforts, she not only helps create awareness for their programs but because of her celebrity status, the organizations receive much needed exposure.”
As winner of the Meredith Inspiration Award, Hingis will receive a $5,000 grant to be given to the charity of her choice. She has decided to match the $5,000 award grant and donate a total of $10,000 to UNICEF with the money being earmarked for the organization’s Basic Education and Gender Equality program. UNICEF advocates quality basic education for all children - girls and boys - with an emphasis on gender equality and eliminating disparities of all kinds. They work with a range of local, national and international partners to bring about essential structural changes needed to achieve social justice and equity for all.
“At UNICEF we believe education is a basic human right which is vital to personal and societal development and well being,” stated Caryl M. Stern, Chief Operating Officer, U.S. Fund for UNICEF. “Because of Martina’s kind generosity, we will be able to use this money to give young girls and women the knowledge and skills necessary to change their lives for the better.”
"Over the course of the last few years, I have come to realize how fortunate I am to be able to do what I love and to be successful at it," Hingis said. "I am honored to receive this award from Meredith Corporation. Through UNICEF this money will inspire and motivate young girls and women throughout the world, to realize their dreams and aspirations.
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