Tennis has always thrived on change, a sport defined by barrier-breakers who refuse to accept limits. Among the most powerful trailblazers stands Althea Gibson , who shattered the color barrier at the 1950 U.S. National Championships, now known as the US Open. Her courage reshaped history, and though she went on to claim five major titles in just eight years, her true legacy lies in opening the gates for generations of Black players who followed.

Seventy-five years ago, when Gibson walked onto the courts of Forest Hills, N.Y., she did more than play a match; she transformed the sport. Her story of resilience and fearlessness now echoes through time, inspiring the 2025 event’s powerful theme, “Celebrating 75 Years of Breaking Barriers.”

This year’s theme comes alive through striking

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