American tennis player Jenson Brooksby has received the Live Long And Prosper (LLAP) Tribute from the Nimoy-Knight Foundation. The award recognizes individuals who contribute to raising awareness and removing stigma surrounding autism. Brooksby revealed some time ago that he is autistic, sharing his personal journey publicly to inspire others.
Brooksby’s Message
In announcing the honor, Brooksby expressed his gratitude: “I am deeply honored and excited to share that I have received the Live long And Prosper (LLAP) Tribute from the Nimoy-Knight Foundation, recognizing individuals who help create awareness and work to remove stigma surrounding autism.”
He highlighted the significance of joining past recipients such as Billie Jean King, Whoopi Goldberg, Neil deGrasse Tyson, Bill Nye, and LeVar Burton. Brooksby emphasized the personal meaning of receiving an award tied to Leonard Nimoy’s legacy, noting that Nimoy’s portrayal of Spock became a symbol of empathy, inclusion, and respect for difference.
Advocacy and Personal Journey
Brooksby shared his own experience with autism, recalling that he was diagnosed with severe autism in childhood and was non-verbal until the age of four. He underwent 40 hours of ABA therapy weekly for years, supported by parents who never gave up. He explained: “Autism advocacy is about more than awareness — it is about understanding, including, respect, and creating spaces where differences are not merely accepted, but valued.”
Continuing the Mission
Brooksby expressed his commitment to advancing conversations about neurodiversity and challenging misconceptions with compassion. He concluded his message with appreciation for the recognition: “I am grateful to the Nimoy-Knight Foundation for this honor, and I remain committed to helping build a world where neurodiversity is recognized not as something to be ‘fixed,’ but as something to be valued. Live Long and Prosper.”
Legacy of the LLAP Tribute
The Nimoy-Knight Foundation established the LLAP Tribute to honor Leonard Nimoy’s legacy. Nimoy’s iconic role as Spock in Star Trek
continues to inspire values of inclusion and respect for difference. By honoring Brooksby, the foundation reinforces its mission to celebrate individuals who embody these principles in their advocacy and work.Jenson Brooksby in 2025
Now the world no.53, Brooksby played his last match on the 25th of October when he was defeated by world no.77 Botic Van De Zandschulp 4-6 6-3 6-3 in the qualifications in Paris (draw).
This season Brooksby achieved a compiled 27-23 win-loss record. This year, Jenson conquered 1 title in Houston. Brooksby was the runner-up in Eastbourne.