Ep 5. Althea

Althea Gibson was an athlete that broke barriers and records. She paved the way for Black tennis players in the United States to compete professionally. Her journey to becoming one of the most influential athletes in modern sports history is chronicled in the American Masters documentary series in season 28 episode 5 titled “Althea.”

The episode tells the story of Gibson's youth, and how her upbringing in Harlem during the Great Depression molded her character and fueled her ambition to succeed. Gibson's passion for tennis was sparked when she started playing on the streets of Harlem. However, as a Black woman, her opportunities to compete and develop her skills were limited.

The episode sheds light on how Gibson faced many challenges in her early career. She started playing tennis in a time when the United States Lawn Tennis Association, or USTA, had strict racial segregation policies, and Black athletes were only allowed to compete in a small number of tournaments. Furthermore, Gibson had to confront the pervasive discrimination that plagued Black people in the United States during the mid-20th century. Despite these obstacles, Gibson continued to train and compete, driven by a deep desire to succeed.

The episode features interviews with some of the people closest to Gibson, offering insight into her character and motivations. It also provides a behind-the-scenes look at some of the most iconic moments of her career, such as her breakthrough win at the French Open in 1956, and how she became the first Black person to gain acceptance to the sport's elite circles.

Throughout the episode, viewers will be reminded of Althea Gibson's impact not just on the world of tennis but on society as a whole. In addition to being an exceptional athlete, Gibson was also a civil rights trailblazer. In the late 1950s, Gibson used her celebrity status to speak out against inequality and discrimination. Her courage to stand up for her rights made her a role model and an inspiration for many people, especially Black women.

The episode goes on to explore Gibson's personal life, highlighting some of the challenges she faced off the court. Candid interviews with friends and family give viewers a deeper understanding of Gibson's personality, including her struggles with alcoholism and failed relationships. Despite these personal struggles, Gibson remained a force in the tennis world and continued to inspire young athletes throughout her life.

The American Masters season 28 episode 5 titled “Althea” is both a tribute to an important sports figure and a reminder of the challenges and triumphs of Black people during the civil rights movement. Whether you're a tennis fan, a lover of inspiring stories, or interested in social history, this episode is an essential watch. It is both educational and entertaining, providing viewers with a well-rounded picture of one of the most important cultural icons of the 20th century.