Althea Gibson
Tennis player and golfer, Grand Slam champion
Born
August 25th, 1927
98 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2003
21 years ago — 76 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
Acclaimed as a pioneer in tennis and golf, an athlete achieved significant milestones in both sports. Gibson became the first African American to compete at the U.S. National Championships in 1950 and won the championship in 1957 and 1958. She also won the French Open in 1956, becoming the first black player to win a Grand Slam title. Transitioning to golf later in her career, Gibson joined the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour and celebrated various tournament participations. Throughout her career, she broke racial barriers and opened doors for future generations of athletes.
First African American to win a Grand Slam title
Won U.S. National Championships in 1957 and 1958
Won French Open in 1956
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