Davenport Receives March of Dimes Award

Sony Ericsson WTA Tour legend Lindsay Davenport received the Sportswoman of the Year Award at the March of Dimes 24th Annual Sports Luncheon in New York City on Wednesday, November 28 in recognition of her extensive accomplishments in the world of tennis and her philanthropic endeavors.
 
The annual luncheon, which was held at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City, celebrated the achievements of two athletes – Davenport and Cal Ripken Jr. (Sportsman of the Year) – and two sports industry leaders – Ted Fortsmann (Corporate Leadership Award) and Arlen Kantarian (Sports Leadership Award). Davenport joins several stellar names on the Sportswoman of the Year roll of honor; a list which includes Jennifer Capriati (2001), Annika Soremstam (2003) and Danica Patrick (2006).
 
In 2007, Davenport returned to the Tour just three months after giving birth to her first son, Jagger. Tennis fans and critics alike closely watched every step of Davenport's return wondering if the former world No.1 could return to the form prior to her temporary leave and Davenport certainly did not disappoint.
 
In three tournaments, Davenport managed to capture singles titles at Bali and Québec City as well as a credible semifinal showing at the Tier II event in Beijing. While the results were highly encouraging in Davenport quest to return to the game's elite, she has acknowledged that her approach has been slightly different.
 
"I'm happier than I've ever been," Davenport explained after capturing the Québec City title. "When I step on the court for matches, I'm really happy to be out there. I'm really focused through next year's US Open and that includes the Olympics and playing the Slams again."
 
The March of Dimes is a national voluntary health agency whose mission is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. Founded in 1938, the March of Dimes funds programs of research, community services, education, and advocacy to save babies and in 2003 launched a campaign to address the increasing rate of premature birth.  The Sports Luncheon will play an important role in supporting this effort.