Diego Romo: A Tennis Journey from Laredo

Diego Romo, a passionate tennis player from Laredo, Texas, has been dedicated to the sport since childhood. Introduced to tennis at the age of three, Romo began competing in USTA tournaments by five and continues to play at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C.

“Tennis has shaped who I am today,” Romo said. “It teaches you how to win with grace and how to lose, which are vital lessons in life.”

Romo credits his grandparents, especially his grandfather Dr. Alfredo Trevino—who was the first Hispanic president of USTA Texas—as his primary role model. “He gave me hope that someone from a minority background can excel in tennis and help grow the sport,” Romo explained. “Their influence instilled in me a desire to give back to my community.”

This commitment to community and representation motivated Romo to apply for an internship within the USTA focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). “Living in a predominantly Hispanic community and being a lifelong tennis player, I felt this opportunity was a perfect fit for me,” he said.

Reflecting on his internship experience, Romo described it as exceeding his expectations. “The USTA National staff was incredibly welcoming, making me feel right at home,” he said. “I was able to expand my network and gain valuable insights into the organization.”

During his summer internship, Romo worked on several exciting projects, including activations for Fan Week at the U.S. Open. “It was rewarding to see some of the events we organized come to life during the Open,” he noted. “That experience was both thrilling and fulfilling.”

Romo's journey illustrates the power of sports to shape lives and foster community connections, inspiring future generations of tennis players.