Aaliyah Robertson Named Recipient of 2025 Anne Krupp Memorial Individual Scholarship

Chicago- The USTA Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation has named Aaliyah Robertson as the recipient of the 2025 Anne Krupp Memorial Individual Scholarship.

Robertson, a member of the Great Lakes Adaptive Sports Association (GLASA) wheelchair tennis program, has been involved in the sport for more than five years. She competed for two seasons on her high school tennis team before becoming disabled, a challenge that forced her to step away from the sport she loved. In November 2023, she discovered wheelchair tennis through GLASA, which also hosts the annual Chicago Wheelchair Classic tournament.

“I am so passionate about tennis because it not only physically challenges me but also mentally challenges me,” Robertson said. “I remember just feeling my mind go quiet as soon as I stepped on the court. To this day, I feel that way every time I play.”

Her transition to wheelchair tennis was seamless. In 2024, Robertson entered her first wheelchair tennis competition, the GLASA Classic, earning first place in C doubles and third place in B singles. She continued her success at the Cajun Classic in Baton Rouge, La., where she advanced to the quarterfinals in B doubles.

“I am a solid B player who has big goals and aspirations,” Robertson said. “This scholarship gives me a chance to fulfill those dreams and become a great player.”

While balancing full-time work to support her living expenses, Robertson also faces the financial demands of tournament travel and entry fees. The Anne Krupp Memorial Individual Scholarship provides support to help ease those challenges, allowing her to pursue more competition opportunities.

“Wheelchair tennis not only gave me that identity of being an athlete again but also gave me such an amazing support system that I will always cherish,” Robertson said.

Aaliyah credits her coaches Paul Moran and Michael Carrico for their impact through GLASA. And it’s no surprise that they, in turn, praise her commitment to the game, noting her consistent practice schedule and growth on court.

Robertson’s story is one of resilience and drive. Challenges that might have sidelined others have fueled her game. Her goals are clear, her focus is sharp – and wheelchair tennis better be ready. Play on, Aaliyah.

The Anne Krupp Memorial Individual Scholarship was created to honor Anne Krupp, a lifelong supporter of adaptive and wheelchair tennis. The award recognizes athletes who embody her passion and determination in pursuing the sport.

Photography by Darrel LeBlanc