TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida A&M University is proudly celebrating the legacy of one of its most accomplished alumnae, Althea Gibson, as the U.S. Open honors the groundbreaking tennis champion whose courage and achievements transformed the sport.
Gibson, who attended FAMU on a tennis scholarship, became the first Black athlete to compete at the U.S. Nationals — now known as the U.S. Open — in 1950. She went on to win five Grand Slam singles titles, including consecutive U.S. Open and Wimbledon championships in 1957 and 1958, paving the way for generations of athletes of color. The U.S. Open this week highlighted Gibson's historic career through video tributes and special recognition ceremonies. The celebrations mark another milestone in a long line of honors for Gibson, including her induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame and the unveiling of a statue at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in 2019.
The world-renowned Florida A&M University Marching "100" traveled to New York for a historic performance at the U.S. Open, joining the 75th anniversary tribute to tennis legend Althea Gibson.
"We are always honored to represent FAMU nationally and globally. Being able to pay tribute to our iconic alumna Althea Gibson on one of the biggest stages in sports is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do," said Shelby Chipman, Ph.D., director of bands. "Our students give everything they have—time, energy and dedication—for opportunities like this. It takes a lot of sacrifice and discipline, but it's these moments that make it all worthwhile."
As part of the U.S. Open's HBCU Live celebration, the Marching "100" performed a powerful tribute in Arthur Ashe Stadium, honoring Gibson's groundbreaking achievements as the first Black athlete to win a Grand Slam title. The band was also featured in the "HBCU Yard Experience" at the Fountain Plaza, showcasing the culture, heritage, and impact of historically Black colleges and universities.
"Seventy-five years ago, Althea Gibson broke barriers and changed the sport of tennis forever," said Marisa Grimes, Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer for the United States Tennis Association. "We are incredibly proud to celebrate her legacy throughout the 2025 US Open, including highlighting her connection to Historically Black Colleges & Universities during our annual HBCU Live event.
Althea was a proud FAMU grad and we are thrilled to have the renowned Marching 100 join us to perform in special tribute to her."
Beyond tennis, Gibson was also an accomplished golfer and entertainer, showcasing her versatility and trailblazing spirit throughout her career. Her achievements have been cited as paving the way for icons such as Venus and Serena Williams, who have acknowledged
Gibson's influence on their own journeys. As the U.S. Open celebrates her legacy, Florida A&M University proudly joins in honoring Althea Gibson — a Rattler whose vision, resilience and excellence changed the course of sports history.
