In honour of Black History Month in America we here at Ubitennis thought we would join in the celebrations. Joshua Mason takes a look at the most notable and interesting black players from the annuls of Tennis history. First up this week is the Men. With many black men traditionally playing other sports, it is very unusual for them to get involved in a sport drenched in white privilege, but here are a few who have broken through and made names for themselves.
- Arthur Ashe
No List of black players can be attempted without Arthur Ashe. The champion from USA was not only the first famous black tennis player of note, but he was also an exceptional tennis player black or not. His three Grand Slam Titles were even more impressive when you consider where he came from. Living in segregated Richmond Virginia in the 60’s Ashe was not allowed to play his Caucasian counterparts, or was allowed in the indoor courts to practise, which were closed for black people at the time. He was forced to move to St. Louis, where he finally flourished and started on what would be an almighty climb up the tennis ladder.
Tragically Arthur Ashe contracted HIV in a heart operation and died of an AIDS related illness in 1993. He will never be forgotten, and not just for his titles, but his pioneering achievements in breaking through prejudice to become one of the world’s greats.
- James Blake
Former American number 1 and world number 4, James Blake has had a blighted career but his perseverance is what stands out for me. After breaking his neck in 2004 and losing his father in the same year, he returned in 2005 and went on to have a successful career. He wrote a celebrated book on the turnaround in his life after 2004 and what it took for him to do it. Not just a skilled tennis player Blake excelled at other sports, such as gold and Basketball. He even harnessed an excellent poker face to come second in Celebrity Poker Showdown, a BRAVO TV show. He went on to play as a pro for Full Tilt Poker for some time!
A misunderstanding at a hotel last year meant Blake was wrongfully arrested in a case of mistaken identity. His experience of the violence in the arrest led him to request talks with New York mayor Bill DeBlasio about Police brutality.
- Gael Monfils
One of the most exciting players on the planet, Gael Monfils is probably the most successful black tennis player of modern times. An incredible athlete, he wows crowds with his patent sliding technique. He holds a devastating forehand and with his speed and penchant for diving, Monfils anyone who plays against him a run for their money. His highest world ranking was7th as well as a semi-final position at the 2008 French Open. He cites Arthur Ashe as his favourite player ever which shows the great man’s true impact on black tennis. No Ashe, no Monfils. (I would have been especially sad as he is my favourite player outside of the top four, to watch)
- Dustin Brown
A unique origin story and a tale of coming through adversity symbolises Dustin Brown’s career. Born to half Jamaican and half German parents, he yo-yoed between the countries learning his Tennis. In Jamaica where Soccer and Athletics are the most popular sports, he struggled to practice. He only had access to broken public courts and old equipment. When he returned to Germany his parents bought him a VW Campervan with which to tour European tournaments with. This allowed him to avoid paying for accommodation. Brown also had a restringing equipment on board and would charge other players to do restring their racquets for them cheaper.
His memorable appearances at Wimbledon have found him a new fan base and while at 133rd in the world he will never have the success of the others, he has popularity that will be the envy of many better players. Recently video showing a trick shot from Brown went viral, adding to his cult following.
While no one denies that more should be done to introduce more black players to tennis, there is no doubt that they have a wonderful bunch of players who have already broken through the wall to inspire to become. From the glories of Arthur Ashe to the hard work of Dustin Brown.
Lookout for next week addition. It’s the women’s turn! (Can you guess who will make it?)
