First Family of Tennis: The Obamas have embraced tennis' virtues

It’s been more than 35 years since Ronald Reagan stated, during his first inaugural address, “Those who say that we’re in a time when there are no heroes, they just don’t know where to look.” We discovered heroes in every state, starting with the determined 69-year-old who won a match at an ITF Pro Circuit event earlier this year in the Alabama town of Pelham, and culminating with the coach who has overcome multiple sclerosis to build a winning program at the University of Wyoming. Their compelling stories of courage, perseverance and achievement demonstrate that the message delivered by our 40th President rings as true today as it did then.

Throughout their time in the White House, the Obamas have embraced our sport's virtues.

Barack Obama began his path to the Oval Office in Chicago, whose sports teams he staunchly supports. His passion for athletics remained visible in Washington, D.C., including on the tennis court. (Photo above)

The White House Easter Egg Roll has been held since 1878, and in 2015 it included a session of 10 and Under Tennis, featuring the 44th U.S. president and former world No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki.

Often seen shooting hoops or swinging a golf club, Obama showed off his dexterity in tennis five years ago when he broke out a tweener.

In 2009, Obama presented Billie Jean King with the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her relentless activism towards gender equality and women’s rights.

In 2010, Michelle Obama launched Let’s Move!, a nationwide initiative to help combat childhood obesity. “With all of the changes going on in tennis,” the Chicago native said, “that’s an even better way for kids to get active and have fun.”

After addressing the crowd inside Arthur Ashe Stadium, the first lady and her daughters Malia (middle) and Sasha (right) took in Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day at the 2013 U.S. Open.

Michelle Obama and Serena Williams have crossed paths—and exchanged tweets of congratulations—throughout the last eight years, including during a teaching clinic at the 2011 U.S. Open.

The first lady has said that she wanted her children to play tennis because it is a lifelong sport. Malia starred for the Sidwell Friends high school team.