Kathy Rinaldi is a former top-ranked professional tennis player who has transitioned to coaching and leadership roles within the sport, notably as a Fed Cup captain and USTA Head of Women’s Tennis. After turning professional in 1980, Kathy Rinaldi quickly established herself in the tennis world, becoming the youngest player to win a match at Wimbledon in 1981, a record that stood for nearly a decade. Her impactful playing career included securing three singles titles and two doubles titles on the WTA Tour, and reaching the French Open Quarterfinal in 1981. Rinaldi achieved her highest singles ranking as world No.
Rinaldi’s leadership capabilities led to her appointment as the captain of the United States Fed Cup team in December 2016, succeeding Mary Joe Fernández. In her inaugural year as captain, she guided the U.S. team to a decisive victory in the 2017 Fed Cup, showcasing her strategic acumen. Rinaldi continued to expand her influence within the sport, serving as an Olympic Coach for the Tokyo 2020 games and is slated to continue this role for Paris 2024.
Beyond her on-court and coaching accomplishments, she has also shared her expertise as a television analyst for ESPN International. Her diverse contributions underscore a sustained commitment to tennis across various capacities. Currently, Kathy Rinaldi holds the prestigious position of USTA Head of Women’s Tennis, where she continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the development and future success of American women’s tennis talent. Her career exemplifies a seamless transition from a top-ranked professional player to an influential leader and mentor, making her a highly respected figure in the global tennis community.