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Today in History: Althea Gibson breaks color barrier at U.S. Nationals

8/28/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Althea Gibson shattered the color barrier when she entered the U.S. National Championships, becoming the first African-American woman to compete. Her historic debut opened doors for Black athletes in tennis and launched a career that later amassed eleven Grand Slam titles across singles, doubles, and mixed events.

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Story summary

Althea Gibson shattered the color barrier when she entered the U.S. National Championships, becoming the first African-American woman to compete. Her historic debut opened doors for Black athletes in tennis and launched a career that later amassed eleven Grand Slam titles across singles, doubles, and mixed events.