NASHVILLE, TN – January 30, 2025 – Former University of Tennessee tennis player and current head coach Chris Woodruff has been named to the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025. Woodruff was surprised with the announcement by Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Executive Director Brad Willis on Thursday at the Goodfriend Tennis Center. The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, sponsored by the Tennessee Lottery, celebrates the state’s rich sports heritage and honors those who have made a lasting impact within their communities.
“Chris Woodruff has represented the University of Tennessee and the state of Tennessee with incredible distinction throughout his career, both as a player and as a coach,” said Brad Willis, Executive Director of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame. “His dedication to the sport of tennis and his ability to develop young talent exemplify the values we honor in the Hall of Fame. We’re thrilled to welcome him to the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025.”
Born in Knoxville, Tennessee, Woodruff was a standout tennis player at the University of Tennessee in 1992 and 1993, capturing the NCAA Singles Championship in 1993, becoming the only Vol to achieve that honor. Woodruff finished the 1993 season ranked number 1 nationally, becoming the only Vol since Paul Annacone in 1993 to achieve that honor.
Following his collegiate success, Woodruff turned professional, reaching a career-high ATP ranking of No. 29 and winning two ATP Tour Championships. During his career, Woodroof earned victories over former world No. 1 players including Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Yevgeni Kafelnikov, Thomas Muster, Gustavo Kuerten, Marcelo Rios, and Carlos Moya.
After retiring from professional tennis, Woodruff returned to his alma mater, joining the Tennessee Volunteers coaching staff in 2002. He was named the head coach of the men’s tennis team in 2017 and has since led the program to consistent success, including NCAA Tournament appearances and developing multiple All-American players. Woodruff’s leadership has elevated the Tennessee tennis program to national prominence, continuing his legacy as a Vol for Life.
Beyond his achievements on the court, Woodruff is known for his commitment to mentoring young athletes and promoting the sport of tennis throughout Tennessee.
Woodruff joins Deon Grant, Doug Mathews, Derrick Mason, Stephen Gostkowski, Larry Kenon, Priscilla Gary Sweeney, the late Ronnie Robinson, the late Phillip Clark, Tony Allen, Elston Turner, George Pitts, and BobBrown as announced members of the Class of 2025. The full 2025 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Induction Class will be released in the coming weeks.
The 2025 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony, presented by the Tennessee Titans, will take place on Saturday, July 19th, at the Omni Nashville Downtown. Ticket information will be announced soon.
About the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame
Established in 1966, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, sponsored by the Tennessee Lottery, enshrines and honors athletes, teams, coaches, sports writers and sports administrators who have made an impact on the history of Tennessee sports. The Hall serves as a platform to connect athletes, coaches, sports fans, and supporters by acknowledging life achievements implemented through sports. The Hall celebrates athletes of all forms, from all across the state. Additionally, Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame aspires to educate youth about the importance of healthy habits and the positive impact they have on lifestyle choices. For more information, visit www.tshf.net.
About the Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation
The Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation operates entirely from the revenue it generates through the sale of its products. Since January 20, 2004, the Lottery has raised more than $7.6 billion to fund designated education programs, including college grants, scholarships, Drive to 55 initiatives and after-school programs. In addition to the educational beneficiaries, players have won more than $20.8 billion in prizes and Lottery retailers have earned more than $2 billion in commissions. For additional information, visit tnlottery.com and follow the TEL on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.
