Racist messages such as those targeting #tennis player @CocoGauff online are appalling and illustrate that Black female athletes are specifically targeted for vitriol and racial abuse. There is no place in sport for racial or sexist slurs and abuse. Players, coaches, and sports bodies need to stand up for those facing such attacks and fans need to push back against those who sully sport with racism and sexism.
September 23, 1970, 56 years ago today, the Original 9 signed $1 contracts in Houston, Texas.
In doing so, women's professional tennis as we know it was born, and future generations of players were able to live out their dreams.
It's important to recognize the other individuals who helped make this happen. Thank you to @ChrissieEvert, who came on board in 1974, and to @Martina who joined next.
From the business side, we are indebted to Joe Cullman, Former Chairman and CEO of Philip Morris, Gladys Heldman, and all the tournament promoters who took a chance on us and created opportunities.
Today, professional tennis players represent 10 of the top 20 highest paid women athletes, according to Forbes 2025 ranking.
56 years later, the impact of the Original 9 is seen in the careers and dreams of today's players.
The legacy of the Original 9 lives on.
📷: HRMC, Houston Public Library
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