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USPS Black Heritage stamp celebrates tennis pioneer
As the international tennis community continues to enjoy the last grand slam event of the sport's calendar year, the U.S. Open, the U.S. Postal Service recently unveiled its latest addition to the Black Heritage stamp series. Businesses developing direct mail campaigns can use mailing software and the commemorative stamp to demonstrate their support for civil rights. The item features Althea Gibson, who the USPS stated was "the first African-American tennis player to win one of the sport's four major tournaments."
In fact, Gibson won the English major Wimbledon on two occasions in addition to the U.S. Championships, now referred to as the U.S. Open. Birmingham News reported female tennis icons Billie Jean King and Katrina Adams celebrated the induction of Gibson – the 36th member – into the series of stamps celebrating the contributions and achievements of African-Americans in U.S. society and culture.
In addition to the Forever stamp, the south entrance of the U.S. Tennis Association Billie Jean King National Tennis Center Court of Champions in Flushing, N.Y., features a plaque dedicated to celebrating the tennis player. Beyond her contributions to the world of sports, Gibson is also celebrated for integrating tennis and participating in the U.S. civil rights movement.
