Joy Albi named "Champion of Equality" at 2023 US Open

President of the USTA/Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation, Joy Albi, was honored as a "Champion of Equality"  at the 2023 US Open for her efforts to level the playing field in tennis, specifically at a grassroots level.

The title was bestowed upon Albi and 15 other USTA section leaders shortly before the women’s singles semifinals.

Cadillac, which sponsored the broadcast of the Battle of the Sexes match in September 1973, presented the event, which celebrated women's fight for equality and the trailblazers who are leading the charge.

"What a wonderful focus for the 2023 US Open and its 50th anniversary of equal prize money," said Albi. "And I was able to share the moment with my own daughter."

It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for attendees who got to meet Billie Jean King and Venus Williams, with the two tennis stars participating in a discussion alongside Telva McGruder, the chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer at General Motors, and award-winning broadcast journalist Christiane Amanpour.

 
"I was privileged to receive this award and a handshake from Billie Jean King," said Albi. "It was truly magical."

"I never expected it and it’s not the end of the journey," said Albi, who as president of the USTA/Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation, remains focused on providing playing opportunities for kids with diverse cultural, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds, and growing inclusivity among players with disabilities.

"The moment that resonates most with me is the moment when Billie Jean King was preparing to present our awards and she looked at all of us, and commented, 'What, no men are champions of equality?' Although the US Open and tennis continue to make strides in equality there is much left to accomplish," said Albi.

"About 45 years ago, I was one of eight women hired for the first time by Xerox in Cincinnati to sell copiers. To say that the previously all-male, high-powered sales environment was intimidating and awkward, is an understatement! Later, about 30 years ago, I graduated from law school and established a criminal defense practice that included working as a public defender. And still, in 2023, only 39% of attorneys are women!"