Overlooked pioneer Gibson finally under the spotlight with US Open tribute

NEW YORK :The U.S. Open turns its mega-watt spotlight on an often-overlooked pioneer for Black women in sport at this year's tournament, as the late Althea Gibson is honoured in American tennis' biggest stage.

Black women have formed the backbone of American tennis over the last three decades, from the global icons Serena and Venus Williams to the likes of Coco Gauff and Sloane Stephens - the last two Americans to triumph at Flushing Meadows.

After being under-recognised for decades, the U.S. Open theme this year - "75 Years of Breaking Barriers” - honours Gibson's landmark 1950 achievement when the daughter of sharecroppers stepped onto a court at the then U.S. National Championships where only white players had previously been allowed.

"All she was really looking for was someone to just say 'Thank you. We understand what you went through'," Michelle Curry, administrator for Althea Gibson Estate, told Reuters.

She became the first Black player to win a major when she triumphed at Roland Garros in 1956. She enjoyed further success at Wimbledon and on home turf at the West Side Tennis Club in Forest Hills, capturing a pair of titles at both of the Grand Slams in 1957 and 1958.

Gibson's influence was felt across the tournament, in a sport that at times still struggles with an overwhelmingly white reputation 75 years after her barrier-breaking performance.

FINALLY BEING SEEN

Venus Williams, the first Black woman to top the WTA rankings, wore a pleated white skirt reminiscent of the one worn by Gibson in her first-round return to Arthur Ashe Stadium this week at the age of 45.

"The most important part is that we are celebrating it and recognising it," said the seven-times major winner.

"Althea accomplished so much, and a lot of it