Tennis was my favorite sport to play in high school. In the 7th grade, I got the grand idea to learn how to play after watching the Australian Open and immediately fell in love. The sport has had a stereotype of being dominated by white Europeans and many Black women have been shut out due to staunch racism and elitism. Black players are labeled as argumentative and they often receive negative press from the media. Join me as we shine a Historical Spotlight on Venus Williams and how she stamped her legacy as one of the greatest tennis players ever.

The concept of sports dates back to 7000 BC and originally determined who was fit for military service. The first Olympic Games, held in Olympia in 776 BC, gradually expanded over time to include events like sprinting, javelin and discus throws, chariot racing, wrestling, and even boxing. Over time, participation has expanded to include women and other historically marginalized groups who were once excluded from competition. Join me as we explore the incredible contributions of Black Americans to sports and the significant struggles they’ve overcome to succeed.