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6h ago

U.S. Open Puts Althea Gibson at Center With ‘75 Years of Breaking Barriers’ Tributes

This year’s theme elevates the trailblazer’s place in tennis history after decades of muted recognition.

A statue honoring African American tennis icon Althea Gibson, who helped integrate the sport, at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, in Flushing Meadows, New York, U.S., August 26, 2019. REUTERS/Arlyn Gajilan/File Photo
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Overview

  • The tournament features Gibson’s silhouette across signs, merchandise and posters, and fans are photographing the statue installed by the USTA in 2019.
  • Venus Williams nodded to Gibson’s style with a pleated white skirt, and players were introduced to Gibson’s family during opening rounds.
  • Men’s sixth seed Ben Shelton called meeting her relatives before his first match an honor and credited Gibson, along with Arthur Ashe, for making his family’s path in tennis possible.
  • Reporting contrasts today’s visibility with 1950, when the USLTA put Gibson’s debut on remote Court 14 and the New York Times mentioned her first-round win only in the 17th paragraph.
  • Estate administrator Michelle Curry said Gibson long sought acknowledgment, noting her profile often lagged behind pioneers honored with USTA venues named for Billie Jean King and Arthur Ashe.