The long and storied history of tennis in the U.S. features a multitude of significant chapters authored by African-Americans. From the sport’s earliest days through its modern era, countless contributions to tennis’ growth and success have been made by players, coaches and administrators of color. Some helped tear down barriers; some have torn up record books. Several have transcended the sport they helped to build to become true American icons. All have been an inspiration, providing this sport, those who play it and those who revel in it, with myriad memorable moments.

 

As we celebrate Black History Month throughout February, USTA.com recalls some of the most memorable of those important moments; milestones that helped to change the face of this sport—literally and figuratively—and inspire us all to raise our game. ADVERTISEMENT Check back all month as we revisit these exceptional moments in history.

 

The founding of the ATA, 1916

Althea Gibson's Forest Hills debut, 1950

Ashe wins inaugural US Open, 1968

Garrison reaches Wimbledon final, 1990

Washington's Wimbledon final run, 1996

Venus Williams' US Open debut, 1997

Serena Williams' first US Open title, 1999

Venus vs. Serena prime-time final, 2001

Katrina Adams named USTA president, 2015

Coco Gauff's Wimbledon bow, 2019

Looking ahead to the next generation