How John Riggio Started a Tennis Club and Ended up Playing Pro Tennis

John Riggio’s rise to tennis stardom is a story of extraordinary passion and relentless determination, set against the backdrop of the modest courts in Jericho, New York. From the moment he first gripped a racket, it was clear that Riggio was destined for greatness. His early years were marked by an unwavering dedication to the sport, driven by a love for tennis that went beyond the ordinary. Every hour spent on the court was a step toward realizing a dream that seemed far beyond the reach of a small-town boy. Yet, with the support of a community that recognized his rare potential and the guidance of mentors who saw greatness in him, Riggio’s journey from local courts to international acclaim became proof of the power of passion, discipline, and an unyielding spirit.

John Riggio began his journey in tennis in the serene neighborhood of Jericho, New York. As a young boy, he was drawn to the sport, spending countless hours practicing on local courts. The courts of Jericho were not just his training grounds but also the cradle of his passion for tennis. These early days were characterized by a dedicated effort to master the game, laying the groundwork for his future success.

Riggio had a talent that quickly became evident to those around him. Coaches and local players noticed his natural aptitude for the game. Despite his young age, Riggio was determined and had a laser focus that set him apart from his peers. His relentless practice sessions were about hitting the ball while understanding the sport, from perfecting his serve to mastering his footwork.

The support of the local community was crucial in Riggio’s early development. His first sponsorship was at the age of 9 from Patrick Mulrooney, owner of a local sports shop in Hicksville, NY, which was a pivotal moment. This sponsorship was more than just financial assistance; it validated Riggio’s potential and sped up his progress. Mulrooney’s support allowed Riggio to access better equipment and resources, further fueling his drive to excel.

Riggio’s commitment to tennis deepened during his middle and high school years. From 8th to 12th grade, he founded and led a tennis club that quickly gained recognition. This club became a part of the school’s tennis program, thanks to the support of the school’s tennis coach, Anthony Cambria. Cambria’s guidance and mentorship were instrumental in Riggio’s development, providing him with the structure and opportunities to compete against higher-level players.

Under the guidance of his mentor, Riggio began to make a name for himself in the competitive tennis scene. By the time he was in middle school, he was already competing in local tournaments, demonstrating his exceptional skills and competitive spirit. His performances caught the attention of many, and he quickly established himself as a rising star.

In 1983, Riggio joined the school tennis team, beginning his journey in competitive singles tournaments. His participation in Junior Pro Tournaments at the US Tennis Center was a significant milestone. These tournaments were held at the prestigious Billie Jean King Center in Flushing, NY, a venue known for hosting high-level tennis competitions. Competing at such a venue was both an honor and a challenge for Riggio, pushing him to raise his game to meet the high standards set by his opponents.

The exposure to higher-level competition was crucial for Riggio. It allowed him to test his skills against some of the best junior players in the country, providing a benchmark for his progress. Each match was a learning experience, teaching him valuable lessons about strategy, resilience, and the importance of mental toughness.

In 1984, Riggio made his first significant impact on the professional scene. He was ranked the 1500th World Professional Tennis Player, a modest beginning that hinted at his potential. This initial ranking was a milestone, marking his entry into the highly competitive world of professional tennis.

Later that year, Riggio’s determination and talent paid off as he made it to the finals of the US Open. His outstanding performance earned him the number 1 ATP Junior Men’s singles ranking, a prestigious accomplishment that included a sponsorship from the Prince Racket Company. This sponsorship was a testament to his skill and potential, providing him with the necessary resources to compete at higher levels.

Riggio’s exceptional performance earned him a place at Clemson University in South Carolina, where he focused exclusively on tennis. He set an all-time ATP record for the most first-serve wins in a single season, demonstrating his dominance on the court.

John Riggio’s transformation from a young tennis enthusiast on the modest courts of Jericho, New York, to a top-ranked professional player is a remarkable tale of raw talent, unwavering dedication, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence. What began as a childhood passion quickly evolved into a lifelong commitment. His journey was shaped and supported by the invaluable guidance of mentors like Anthony Cambria, whose wisdom and encouragement played a pivotal role in honing Riggio’s skills. The backing of generous sponsors also provided the resources necessary to compete at the highest levels.