I think the USTA should invest in training at the local level for people of all race and socioeconomic levels (Richard Williams trained Venus and Serena on the courts of Compton till they were 9 or 10 and they seem to have done pretty well), and when it gets to the level of investing in promising kids it should be based on talent only and not race.
3
So, #BlackAmericanTennisPlayersMatter???
3
Actually, I don't think so. After the Williams sister, the top american women, Keys and Stephens are black. The head of the USTA is black. Granted, Donald Young is the only black male, but what are people supposed to do. Sometimes, luck plays a role and that the situation today is just the way it is with no racism involved. Where are the caucasion champions?
1
Wait, Donald Young is black? I thought he was just a good tennis player.
Thanks for pointing out what matters in people.
Let's stop identifying ourselves and other people by the number of melanocytes in our skin. It's sickening, and quite frankly, the major reason racism won't go away.
I guess some may think I must have a relatively low number of melanocytes in my skin to make such a comment. But, who knows?
Literally the only thing that Ben Carson and I agree on is that what makes people human is what he operates on; but the man makes an important point.
Thanks for pointing out what matters in people.
Let's stop identifying ourselves and other people by the number of melanocytes in our skin. It's sickening, and quite frankly, the major reason racism won't go away.
I guess some may think I must have a relatively low number of melanocytes in my skin to make such a comment. But, who knows?
Literally the only thing that Ben Carson and I agree on is that what makes people human is what he operates on; but the man makes an important point.
8
actually; I don't want to be misleading.
Strictly speaking, it's really not the number of melanocytes that Mr. Rhoden and others seem to think is a human attribute worthy of reporting as perhaps the defining feature of a particular tennis player; rather it is the number, content, size, and distribution of melanosomes within the skin.
My bad.
Strictly speaking, it's really not the number of melanocytes that Mr. Rhoden and others seem to think is a human attribute worthy of reporting as perhaps the defining feature of a particular tennis player; rather it is the number, content, size, and distribution of melanosomes within the skin.
My bad.
So how much worse is the USTA doing with men and women than the the United States soccer federation has done with Men's soccer over the past 50 years?
Men's tennis is an absolute disaster for the USA.
So is Men's soccer.
Oh well.
Mr. Rhoden: Once again: When you you going to take an early retirement package? Doesn't it bother you that a relative newbie like Doug Glanville is already a vastly superior writer than you?
Men's tennis is an absolute disaster for the USA.
So is Men's soccer.
Oh well.
Mr. Rhoden: Once again: When you you going to take an early retirement package? Doesn't it bother you that a relative newbie like Doug Glanville is already a vastly superior writer than you?
2
This is America, where institutionalized racism exist, period. But, second to this is social stratification... if you cannot afford an affluent sport like Lawn Tennis (that's what we called it back in Jamaica), Polo, Golf etc, then you are pretty much out of luck.
People/gentry went to country clubs to enjoy these leisure sports (Tennis Club, Golf Club, Polo Club), so the median average (income) American would rarely gain access to these luxuries. Now let's put this in racial context, the average (income) Black American is unarguably below that of the median average American. That my friends is a double strike against Black Americans with regards opportunity/access to these sports.
Now a bunch of you may say, 'well, Madison Keys is doing it why can't "they all" do it'? My answer, go research young Ms. Keys parents and get back to us...
The fact of the matter is, until we as American start acting as a whole, and dispense of the parts that divides us, there will be continued need for targeted assistance to marginalized minorities.
People/gentry went to country clubs to enjoy these leisure sports (Tennis Club, Golf Club, Polo Club), so the median average (income) American would rarely gain access to these luxuries. Now let's put this in racial context, the average (income) Black American is unarguably below that of the median average American. That my friends is a double strike against Black Americans with regards opportunity/access to these sports.
Now a bunch of you may say, 'well, Madison Keys is doing it why can't "they all" do it'? My answer, go research young Ms. Keys parents and get back to us...
The fact of the matter is, until we as American start acting as a whole, and dispense of the parts that divides us, there will be continued need for targeted assistance to marginalized minorities.
2
well done
Oh please William, everything you have observed and written about these past several years is through the lens of race, quite frankly it is getting quite tiresome. Tennis? Hello? The issue here is the pathetic state of professional American tennis; there are about 2 great world class American tennis players, and they are both in their 30s. Every time a Grand Slam event rolls around to the final sixteen or so one scans the list and finds 33 year old (soon to be 34) Serena Williams and usually bit not always 35 year old Venus Williams and the question that occurs is: where are the rest of the Americans? Do they still play tennis in the U.S.?
6
There is also a dearth of black neurosurgeons, chess champions, nuclear physicists and Shakespeare scholars. These things take time, and a commitment to years of devoted study to accomplish. Government and private organizations can only do so much. Family support is the critical factor. Without it, the chances of success are slim.
6
How can there be "family" support, when our system of government endeavors to destroy the Black family?
I guess that you've never been black, who what do you know?
By the way, I'm not your average Joe that's making a comment.
I guess that you've never been black, who what do you know?
By the way, I'm not your average Joe that's making a comment.
2
One could have easily turned this around and asked why the USTA is not developing white players? I mean, outside of the Williams sisters, there has not been a white American Grand Slam winner in the men or women's division for the past fifteen years. American tennis is in a sorry state of affairs and race has zero to do with it.
9
The USTA was built by white people, for white people. Just like the USPGA.
Dude, we are in the information age, where history is just a keystroke away. Do some research on the evolution of the Williams sisters, then revisit your ill-informed rhetoric.
Dude, we are in the information age, where history is just a keystroke away. Do some research on the evolution of the Williams sisters, then revisit your ill-informed rhetoric.
2
Another well-considered post. Although Williams pere received some help from organised tennis circles, he was, initially, the epitome of a self-starter
How come we don't have the same article written about the incredible disproportionate numbers of blacks in the NBA? Whites should have been recipients of affirmative action regardless of their capabilities. Fair is fair right?
9
Maybe because the NBA never had a history of discriminating against white players whereas Tennis has had a history of discriminating against black players?
1
The USTA's failure at developing black players is no different than its failure to develop players of any other racial group. The USTA hasn't a clue how to develop players - not now, not ever. No great American player ever came up through a USTA player development program - not a single one.
Rather than focus attention on the lack of new great black American players, our attention should be focused on providing broad access to tennis across socioeconomic groups and to a true player development system, like that found in other countries, that really moves players from beginner to top pro in a meaningful way. The current management, and all of its predecessors, have proven themselves to be completely incompetent in this regard.
The only logical approach is to fire the lot and allow current players to design a new system and hire their replacements, so that the current leadership has no chance to recreate itself in the ways that leaders have done in the past.
Rather than focus attention on the lack of new great black American players, our attention should be focused on providing broad access to tennis across socioeconomic groups and to a true player development system, like that found in other countries, that really moves players from beginner to top pro in a meaningful way. The current management, and all of its predecessors, have proven themselves to be completely incompetent in this regard.
The only logical approach is to fire the lot and allow current players to design a new system and hire their replacements, so that the current leadership has no chance to recreate itself in the ways that leaders have done in the past.
2
Sport, any sport, is not a place to be investing time and energy on this topic or generally, any topic. These are not the careers our children be aspiring too. Invest those resources elsewhere.
Similar to the stereotypical articles on too few females in engineering, yet we never discuss too few males in nursing or elementary education.
In general , we should simply be talking about opportunity for all and let our children choose.
Similar to the stereotypical articles on too few females in engineering, yet we never discuss too few males in nursing or elementary education.
In general , we should simply be talking about opportunity for all and let our children choose.
4
In New York City, “The City requires a permit to play tennis on any public court.”
http://www1.nyc.gov/nyc-resources/service/2611/tennis-permit Under Mayor Bloomberg, the cost of a tennis permit for an 18 year old rose to $200 (from $100). “Full-season permits for adults 18-61 cost $200.” http://www.nycgovparks.org/permits/tennis-permits Other public sports facilities (such as basketball courts) are free. In NYC it would have cost Venus and Serena’s parents $420 ($10 for junior permits) just to walk onto the courts to play tennis with their kids. Maybe that largely explains the socio-economic, if not the racial, profile of US tennis, at least in NYC.
http://www1.nyc.gov/nyc-resources/service/2611/tennis-permit Under Mayor Bloomberg, the cost of a tennis permit for an 18 year old rose to $200 (from $100). “Full-season permits for adults 18-61 cost $200.” http://www.nycgovparks.org/permits/tennis-permits Other public sports facilities (such as basketball courts) are free. In NYC it would have cost Venus and Serena’s parents $420 ($10 for junior permits) just to walk onto the courts to play tennis with their kids. Maybe that largely explains the socio-economic, if not the racial, profile of US tennis, at least in NYC.
4
Not too mention the cost of two or more rackets.
Wow, some really nasty comments and attitudes about the notion that black Americans should be singled out for extra attention and assistance in development of their tennis talents.
No affirmative action for blacks on the tennis courts.
Just pot shots from the peanut gallery.
In the 1500 characters allowed in this space, I nor anyone else will be able to address fully why affirmative action came to be seen as one method to try and counter discrimination, and "racial wrongs" delt covertly (redlining in housing) or overtly (restrictions on voting) or criminally (lynching) that have existed (and still exist) in America regarding those with darker skin.
That's it folks, different skin.
Skin!
All this persistenting generations AFTER slavery (people were actually slaves!!) was abolished.
So, I won't be able to cover it all.
But, I'm pleased to see outreach to black Americans in tennis.
And I'd be just as pleased to see outreach to American Indians. Show me two more oppressed groups.
Outreach anyone marginalized anywhere is fine.
And to anyone reading this who can blithely wave their hand and dismiss any effort to engage people who find themselves disengaged on the margins for myriad reasons, not of their choice necessarily, but because of circumstances of birth and class, let that person consent to waking up tomorrow with a black face in America.
Any white volunteers?
Didn't think so.
Now reply and say why not.
I dare ya.
No affirmative action for blacks on the tennis courts.
Just pot shots from the peanut gallery.
In the 1500 characters allowed in this space, I nor anyone else will be able to address fully why affirmative action came to be seen as one method to try and counter discrimination, and "racial wrongs" delt covertly (redlining in housing) or overtly (restrictions on voting) or criminally (lynching) that have existed (and still exist) in America regarding those with darker skin.
That's it folks, different skin.
Skin!
All this persistenting generations AFTER slavery (people were actually slaves!!) was abolished.
So, I won't be able to cover it all.
But, I'm pleased to see outreach to black Americans in tennis.
And I'd be just as pleased to see outreach to American Indians. Show me two more oppressed groups.
Outreach anyone marginalized anywhere is fine.
And to anyone reading this who can blithely wave their hand and dismiss any effort to engage people who find themselves disengaged on the margins for myriad reasons, not of their choice necessarily, but because of circumstances of birth and class, let that person consent to waking up tomorrow with a black face in America.
Any white volunteers?
Didn't think so.
Now reply and say why not.
I dare ya.
9
Paul King,
I think affirmative action is necessary in education, but why in tennis? How will it help with poverty or crime?
I think affirmative action is necessary in education, but why in tennis? How will it help with poverty or crime?
Paul. You would have a point if promising young black players were being overlooked for mediocre white players but it seems that the USTA is investing in players like Sloane, Hurricane, Tornado, Maddison and Young all of whom are African American and player development is being lead by Hurrican and Tornado's father.
2
What about the void in Asian-American champions or Hispanic Americans? This is a silly article
6
Beyond Serena there is no other great American tennis player, black, white, green, or whatever color you choose. Jimmy Connors, John McEnroe and other former great players that happened to be white, didn't represent white Americans, they represented themselves as great players that happend to be American. Serena and Venus don't represent blacks either. Please stop putting race everywhere.
5
I'm black and I'm liberal as hell and all I can say is here we go again! It does not have to do with what the USTA is doing, it has to do with what a particular indivual is doing and his or her support structure. I hit balls against a brick wall at a public school with a racquet that was given to me by a neighbor. Ultimately, though, I switched over to track and field because of all of the nasty politics I realized I would have to endure. At this point I'd like to inject lyrics from a Stevie Nicks song that goes "and it all comes down to you." The song's title is "Gypsy."
5
If only life was as simple as you thought!
1
Mr. Rhoden, this insipid article suggesting that the USTA must do more to develop black tennis players is liberal pseudo-racial-compassion at its finest. I suggest your next assignment should be an in-depth investigation of why the NBA is failing to develop a proportionate quota of white players.
7
So now it's come down to this? Must we bring up race regardless of the subject?
4
To me, the first question is why don't high schools have gym classes anymore. I did swimming, basketball, grass hockey, baseball in high school and I was a relatively poor kid who might not otherwise have had the opportunity to be exposed to a spectrum of sports. The second question is why are there not more opportunities for poor kids to get exposed to sports like tennis at a grass roots (clay roots?) level. It's a sport that can be followed or played all our lives--no need to be Serena although she is so terrific to follow.
4
Golf and tennis are not resonating with younger people, and they re very expensive sports to participate in. Not at the top of the list in this economic environment. You could also make the case that tennis lacks Jews, Eskimos, and countless other racial and ethnic groups. The bottom line is who cares? Why is this important? If Blacks and Hispanics can get readily scholarships for baseball, football or basketball then you can't force them to play tennis.
3
What about Hispanic Americans, Indian Americans, and Chinese Americans? Let us stop thinking of it as just White or Black Americans issue.
3
There are thousands of black athletes in all kind of sports. To get to the professional level in tennis or any sport you have to be in training over time and win, if in individual sports. No matter what race. Any Hispanics or Native Americans in tennis that we know about? Tired of the black/white focus of the Times.
5
What about developing Latino, Asian or Native American athletes? I haven't seen ANY athletes of these races representing the US. Rather than complain about having only 2 black athletes, perhaps you should count your blessings.
5
The underlying theme in this article has nothing to do with tennis or athletic ability but to advance an agenda of racial diversity in professional tennis, an absurd topic for the NY Times. If you want more blacks in professional tennis then go to Africa to recruit black tennis players, there are more than 200 million young black people who would welcome the opportunity. Second to say that the Williams have been beacons for young players around the world is just preposterous. Where did you get this information? Young African Americas know that there possibilities of making it in professional tennis are abysmal. Parents of young blacks know that it is better to have their sons and daughters at the library studying instead of sports, so they can earn a college degree and have a good standard of living. Dr. Ben Carson said that the best thing his mother ever gave him was a library card. No one can ever take away his medical degree away, but many black athletes never make it to professional sports. I am sending my son and daughter to the library.
5
Let's pl'ease with the incessant dodging about the histocial conditions that Rhoden is alluding o and which have contributed to US organised tennis failure to tap a potential talent pool until recently.
The same voices croaking about matters having to do with a failure to tap a potential African talent pool are the same individuals overlooking the efforts,over the years, of the Williams family in establishing tennis academies on the Continent
The same voices croaking about matters having to do with a failure to tap a potential African talent pool are the same individuals overlooking the efforts,over the years, of the Williams family in establishing tennis academies on the Continent
2
Anyone who looks at player development or plays in USTA leagues knows it is an awful organization. Their focus is cronyism and to pay the execs huge salaries from US Open earnings and only do enough with player development and minorities to maintain tax-free status. Note the Williamses developed outside the USTA.
4
To the author: Where are all of the great up and coming American players who are not of color?
Answer: It is the same bro. Your premise here is very flawed.
Answer: It is the same bro. Your premise here is very flawed.
4
Next Mr. Rhoden will be informing us that, but for the Republicans, blacks would be dominating the sport of bullfighting.
6
This is an odd piece. There has been plenty of African-American tennis success, relatively speaking. Blacks are 13 percent of the U.S. population, and surely a much smaller percentage of the population that can afford tennis lessons. Yet, the top FOUR U.S. women's players (and three of the four Americans to reach the Round of 16 at this year's Open) are African American. One of the two Americans left in the U.S. open men's singles draw is African American. One of the only U.S. men to even sniff a Grand Slam title during this 12-year men's drought is James Blake, who is African American. And as Mr. Rhoden notes, there are quite a few talented black players in the pipeline. I am African American and I certainly applaud the success of African Americans in many endeavors, including tennis. But tennis success seems to be if not the least of our problems, then pretty close to it.
8
Much of the talk about diversifying the tennis community is just that - talk.
If AAU Basketball, and Little league Baseball, and Pop Waner Football have find a way to dot the landscape of America with teams and resources and access to virtually any kid who wants to play, surely tennis can too.
The relutance very much seems as if there is an unspoken desire to keep tennis rich and white, for fear, sadly, that the ability of Black players like the Williams sisters will "take over" the sport and change its complexion.
The USTA has too many models in the aforementioned organization to be able to get this right, if they want to.
If AAU Basketball, and Little league Baseball, and Pop Waner Football have find a way to dot the landscape of America with teams and resources and access to virtually any kid who wants to play, surely tennis can too.
The relutance very much seems as if there is an unspoken desire to keep tennis rich and white, for fear, sadly, that the ability of Black players like the Williams sisters will "take over" the sport and change its complexion.
The USTA has too many models in the aforementioned organization to be able to get this right, if they want to.
2
Mr Rhoden keeps writing the same article over & over, badmitton, polo, tidleywinks, national spelling bee, bronc busting are next
4
Americans have lost interest in tennis and golf, and trickle down doesn't work, anyway.
2
Another article on the "invisible hand of racism". Why is it that the dominance of black players in many sports is not seen as racist? It is clearly grossly disproportionate to their numbers in the population. What other explanation could there be ?
The answer is simple. Most sports are a meritocracy. The teams reflect those with the best skills.
This also explains the racial distribution in other areas. But political correctness prefers a racial explanation. Silicon Valley will have more black engineers when the pool of applicants grows.....there will be more black tennis pros when more blacks choose tennis.
The answer is simple. Most sports are a meritocracy. The teams reflect those with the best skills.
This also explains the racial distribution in other areas. But political correctness prefers a racial explanation. Silicon Valley will have more black engineers when the pool of applicants grows.....there will be more black tennis pros when more blacks choose tennis.
19
But, you know. It wasn't always so. At best, you're being disingenuous. At worst, you're wallowing in a now-familiar sort of grievance, coupled with [a probably willful kind of historical ignorance]: College and pro sports were, at lone point, well within the lifespans of many Americans of a certain age, all white--blacks, no matter how good were either outright excluded from participation or limited in their opportunities. Amateur and professional Tennis was particularly egregious in that respect.
Again, blacks weren't excluding whites, they hadn't the power to do so; it was whites excluding blacks. Against that backdrop writers like Rhoden are justified at taking the slant that they do and arguments about, well, look at blacks in [insert football or basketball, etc] are nonsense. If everything had always been on an even keel in terms of opportunity who knows how many sports would be dominated by a particular group,...or care?
That's the question you have to ask yourself
Again, blacks weren't excluding whites, they hadn't the power to do so; it was whites excluding blacks. Against that backdrop writers like Rhoden are justified at taking the slant that they do and arguments about, well, look at blacks in [insert football or basketball, etc] are nonsense. If everything had always been on an even keel in terms of opportunity who knows how many sports would be dominated by a particular group,...or care?
That's the question you have to ask yourself
1
Spoken like a child.
No, a child with blinders on.
Psssst… Mr. Know it all…
You're white I assume. So am I.
Now presto-changeo, you're black!!
And your family has been black since they arrived as slaves. And 100 years after slavery in the year 1965 you and your black family are still clawing and scratching for, ummm, the right to freaking vote, for God's sake!!
Wow, why didn't these folks just merely "choose" (you naive word) to vote? So simple!
Or just "choose" to get that home loan from the bank that purposely decided against them living in that better neighborhood.
Or just "choose" to have all the opportunity generations of Americans have passed on to them because their ancestors weren't discriminated against because of nothing more than a dark face.
Man, if only you had been alive in Mississippi in the last century, you, in your simple way could have advised blacks to "choose" not to be lynched, denied the right to vote, go to bad, short-changed public schools or even go into a restaurant.
You are black today.
Look in the mirror.
You're face is now black.
Now "choose" to not be subject to any form of racism of impediment of opportunity in America.
Go ahead choose!
So, tell us genius, exactly how does the pool of black applicants in Silicon Valley grow.
What steps need to occur for that to happen.
Like asking a child…
No, a child with blinders on.
Psssst… Mr. Know it all…
You're white I assume. So am I.
Now presto-changeo, you're black!!
And your family has been black since they arrived as slaves. And 100 years after slavery in the year 1965 you and your black family are still clawing and scratching for, ummm, the right to freaking vote, for God's sake!!
Wow, why didn't these folks just merely "choose" (you naive word) to vote? So simple!
Or just "choose" to get that home loan from the bank that purposely decided against them living in that better neighborhood.
Or just "choose" to have all the opportunity generations of Americans have passed on to them because their ancestors weren't discriminated against because of nothing more than a dark face.
Man, if only you had been alive in Mississippi in the last century, you, in your simple way could have advised blacks to "choose" not to be lynched, denied the right to vote, go to bad, short-changed public schools or even go into a restaurant.
You are black today.
Look in the mirror.
You're face is now black.
Now "choose" to not be subject to any form of racism of impediment of opportunity in America.
Go ahead choose!
So, tell us genius, exactly how does the pool of black applicants in Silicon Valley grow.
What steps need to occur for that to happen.
Like asking a child…
4
The energy with which some readers denounce the idea of Racism in tennis in this comments section clearly identifies the depth of the problem. These individuals blithely claiming Black kids have just as much opportunity as White kids in tennis.
The reality is the reasons the Williams sisters in tennis and Tiger Woods in golf reached the highest level of success is exactly the same both the Williams sisters and Woods had talented determined fathers who were very conscious of how difficult it was for Black kids in these sports and they came up with a plan and a relentless determination to overcome those barriers.
As for basketball and football which some readers here claim "discriminate" against Whites that is laughable. The reason there are many African Americans in both sports in fact proves claims of discrimination in tennis and golf. Black kids are successful in basketball and football because they have the same kind of access as White kids to these two sports and with a "level playing field" talented Black kids compete very successfully.
Were it so in tennis and golf we would see many young African Americans doing very well in both sports. It is time both tennis and golf took some REAL corrective measures. These two wildly profitable sports can afford it.
The reality is the reasons the Williams sisters in tennis and Tiger Woods in golf reached the highest level of success is exactly the same both the Williams sisters and Woods had talented determined fathers who were very conscious of how difficult it was for Black kids in these sports and they came up with a plan and a relentless determination to overcome those barriers.
As for basketball and football which some readers here claim "discriminate" against Whites that is laughable. The reason there are many African Americans in both sports in fact proves claims of discrimination in tennis and golf. Black kids are successful in basketball and football because they have the same kind of access as White kids to these two sports and with a "level playing field" talented Black kids compete very successfully.
Were it so in tennis and golf we would see many young African Americans doing very well in both sports. It is time both tennis and golf took some REAL corrective measures. These two wildly profitable sports can afford it.
8
I agree. I imagine many of the effete NYT readers have never participated in sports themselves and know nothing about the social dynamics of sports. Cheers!
1
Another reason why certain sports are overwhelming Black is because it's the best way to make the predominately White owners of teams involved in those sports, lots and lots of money.
1
Tennis is the ultimate meritocracy. The player stands alone with no teammates to back him up. If there is a Black player out there he will rise to his own level of skill. In fact all other sports are similarly structured..
Obviously the NFL & NBA have a large majority of Blacks thanks to their abilities. MLB has seen less Blacks but a surge in Hispanic players.
Most sports fans are unconcerned with race and want to see their team field the best players.
Obviously the NFL & NBA have a large majority of Blacks thanks to their abilities. MLB has seen less Blacks but a surge in Hispanic players.
Most sports fans are unconcerned with race and want to see their team field the best players.
7
There is a crying need for more African-American tennis players. African-American children need more sports role models. They have no one to convince them they can make it in sports. Kids need to see African-Americqn tennis stars and know that they, too, can be tennis stars.
And. maybe when that's done, we might look at why some kids, a dsprportionate number of whom are African-American, are underperforming in school, and how to make the schools more responsive to their needs, so they can have productive and happy adult lives. Just a thought.
And. maybe when that's done, we might look at why some kids, a dsprportionate number of whom are African-American, are underperforming in school, and how to make the schools more responsive to their needs, so they can have productive and happy adult lives. Just a thought.
3
Linda says: "African-American children need more sports role models. They have no one to convince them they can make it in sports."
------
You're joking, right?
------
You're joking, right?
2
Well, we could start by stop selling every athletically talented Black kid (particularly males) on that horrible odds lottery of professional Basketball and Football, as the only routes to earn an income from sports. How many Hank Aaron, Gabby Douglas, Venus and Serena's' are we losing? And then we could expand public school physical education courses to cover (which is actually part of their curriculum), a wider and more diverse offering of sports activities. Or, why don’t we just ask the father of Venus and Serena (or any Black parent of a child who is participating in a non-stereotypical sports activity!) Expose them… They need to start early, encourage and support them, and by all means keep them away from people who will try to discourage them by telling them something silly like, they don’t have the right body type.
6
If you think the odds of success in pro football or basketball are bad, wait until you crunch the numbers for tennis.
2
Tennis, like skiing, is a middle class and wealthy persons' sport. It requires money and access to continually train at a young age to get as good as you need to get to turn pro.
The Williams' sisters were outliers.
Other sports, like basketball and soccer are more egalitarian. All you need is a ball and you can play in the street or on the local court.
More importantly, most local parks had a baseball diamond and basketball courts for kids of all backgrounds to play on. Which is why you see many minorities playing both sports.
The same cannot be said of tennis, where public tennis courts are rare, and it is still the preserve of private clubs and country clubs, and the insruction needed to play well to turn pro is time consuming and expensive.
The Williams' sisters were outliers.
Other sports, like basketball and soccer are more egalitarian. All you need is a ball and you can play in the street or on the local court.
More importantly, most local parks had a baseball diamond and basketball courts for kids of all backgrounds to play on. Which is why you see many minorities playing both sports.
The same cannot be said of tennis, where public tennis courts are rare, and it is still the preserve of private clubs and country clubs, and the insruction needed to play well to turn pro is time consuming and expensive.
17
Yes, there should be greater minority representation within the USTA. But what are we trying to train up? Great tennis players. (As great as the Williams sisters ain't gonna happen in a long long time.) Seems like the NJTL that Ashe started has had greater success than the ad hoc methods of the USTA. Trying to blow up the tennis establishment is the favorite pastime of all who love the game of tennis. Take tennis out of the club, but you won't take the club out of tennis. Why not give the Williams family the USTA? Could they do any worse than, say, the McEnroe family?
6
You can find public tennis courts almost anywhere. Within 10 minutes of our house there are probably 15 courts and when I go out to hit they are mostly devoid of players, black or white.
1
Yeah it's too bad, etc. But does America really need more sports stars?
We can always remain a grotesquelyunequal society that every now and then elevates a genetic outlier to multimillionaire status. But the utility of that for society is low. Better to have more engineers, skilled trades, and labor organizers, if you ask me.
We can always remain a grotesquelyunequal society that every now and then elevates a genetic outlier to multimillionaire status. But the utility of that for society is low. Better to have more engineers, skilled trades, and labor organizers, if you ask me.
14
And Asians aren't represented in any sport. What should we do about that?
23
First, the standard for measuring player development is not the winning of major championships. A better measure is the number of players in the top 100.
By this measure, American women are doing well, with 11 players in the top 100. African American women are doing even better, with four players in the top 30. There is no shortage of young, African American women players.
American men are not doing so well, although better than I thought. There are eight American men in the top 100: #13 John Isner, #28 Jack Sock, #38 Sam Querrey, #47 Steve Johnson, #68 Donald Young, #75 Dennis Kudla, #88 Rajeev Ram, and #99 Tim Smyczek. Of these, Donald Young is the only African American--I think. I had not heard of the last three men listed until I looked at the rankings.
So yes, despite the efforts of Arthur Ashe and others, the development of African American men has not borne much fruit. James Blake (and his brother Thomas) are the only other African American male tennis players I can name between Ashe in the 1960's and 1970's and Young today. Given the current lull in top American players today (versus the heydays of Connors and McEnroe or Sampras, Agassi, Currier, Chang and Martin), the USTA targeting the development of more African American men probably makes sense.
By this measure, American women are doing well, with 11 players in the top 100. African American women are doing even better, with four players in the top 30. There is no shortage of young, African American women players.
American men are not doing so well, although better than I thought. There are eight American men in the top 100: #13 John Isner, #28 Jack Sock, #38 Sam Querrey, #47 Steve Johnson, #68 Donald Young, #75 Dennis Kudla, #88 Rajeev Ram, and #99 Tim Smyczek. Of these, Donald Young is the only African American--I think. I had not heard of the last three men listed until I looked at the rankings.
So yes, despite the efforts of Arthur Ashe and others, the development of African American men has not borne much fruit. James Blake (and his brother Thomas) are the only other African American male tennis players I can name between Ashe in the 1960's and 1970's and Young today. Given the current lull in top American players today (versus the heydays of Connors and McEnroe or Sampras, Agassi, Currier, Chang and Martin), the USTA targeting the development of more African American men probably makes sense.
3
Watching the Williams sisters these many years has given me untold pleasure and pride.
2
Beyond Two Jehovah's Witnesses Champions, A Void
I look forward to the tenditious series by Rhoden on the issue. But we all know that aint happening.
I look forward to the tenditious series by Rhoden on the issue. But we all know that aint happening.
6
Venus Williams has been a non-entity in tennis for over at least the last 5 years
Serena Williams has won, but since 2009 in a real weak field.
In short the Williams sisters have dominated tennis for only a short time period; mid 2002 to mid 2003.
Serena Williams has won, but since 2009 in a real weak field.
In short the Williams sisters have dominated tennis for only a short time period; mid 2002 to mid 2003.
3
Ridiculous, simply ridiculous. The Williams sisters are sublime tennis players and have been for years and years. Venus is among the greats, Serena may be the greatest of all.
5
Say what now? They have 28 majors between them. Serena has won four straight majors and is on the cusp of a calendar year grand slam achieved by only two other women (Navratilova and Court). The issue of "greatest of all time" is open for debate, given the lack of a rival of close to even stature, but I arguably Serena Williams, with seven titles after the age of 30 and more in sight, is "dominant."
As for " The Williams sisters are sublime tennis players"
Venus has never won big on clay or at the Australian Open. She was a one-dimensional ball basher.
Serena is the most reviled player, male or female, in tennis, after her horrible behavior at the 2009 and 2011 USOs. She is not the recipient of the highest fine in tennis history for nothing.
Venus has never won big on clay or at the Australian Open. She was a one-dimensional ball basher.
Serena is the most reviled player, male or female, in tennis, after her horrible behavior at the 2009 and 2011 USOs. She is not the recipient of the highest fine in tennis history for nothing.
2
USTA has to create a viable ecosystem that expands the base of tennis participation. Unfortunately, individual actors self interest within that ecosystem actually work to limit the base. Coaches want to be paid along with tennis clubs, this creates barrier of entries. I would also say parents & players in fact want a barrier of entry, a sport where my kid can get a collegiate scholarship. The US has a pretty decent hard capital regarding tennis in the form of public courts but a limited social/soft capital when it comes to leveraging those courts. Tennis has a initial learning curve that requires instruction, I'm talking about just hitting the ball. Once the initial learning curve is accomplished you need a free environment where perceptive learning can occur. In other words public courts no cost tournaments every weekend during the summer ran by the USTA.
2
When is the NBA going to search for the next great white player ? What ? Why is that a dumb question?
18
Actually, this is a politically insensitive and outright racist remark!
3
It is a politically insensitive and racist remark to point out the paucity of white NBA players. Yet it is not a politically insensitive and racist remark to point out the scarcity of black U.S.T.A. players.
Why?
Why?
2
Actually, the real racial injustice is that the US Tennis Association has not yet identified the first Native American tennis talent. Nor have they made any effort whatsoever in developing Eskimoes for the sport.
While we're at it, given the predominately black presence in football and basketball, isn't it long overdue that the NFLPA and the NBAPA commit its time and money to develop white youngsters to play in these sports? After all, there's something really nefarious going on when the majority race by population is not able to have a representative majority on the playing fields.
Get a life Mr Rhoden.
While we're at it, given the predominately black presence in football and basketball, isn't it long overdue that the NFLPA and the NBAPA commit its time and money to develop white youngsters to play in these sports? After all, there's something really nefarious going on when the majority race by population is not able to have a representative majority on the playing fields.
Get a life Mr Rhoden.
34
Rhoden faces the reaction that many African-American writers (as ell as others) face when racing certain unpleasant realities
Native Americans wee not barred from playing major league sports, neither were Jews, the only ethnic group systemically barred from those athletic venues were those of Negroid phenotype or otherwise perceived as of African descent
No matter the bleating, that is the one truth one cannot get around.
Native Americans wee not barred from playing major league sports, neither were Jews, the only ethnic group systemically barred from those athletic venues were those of Negroid phenotype or otherwise perceived as of African descent
No matter the bleating, that is the one truth one cannot get around.
1
Should that "beacon" for young players be someone who in a foul-mouthed rage threatens to shove a ball down the throat of an official?
It's shameful that Mr. Rhoden believes that Serena Williams should carry the flag for American tennis.
It's shameful that Mr. Rhoden believes that Serena Williams should carry the flag for American tennis.
10
Is there a “race committee” in the central office of the NYT doling out quotas for “race articles” regardless of how untruthful they are. It seems every department is invected.The scope of The Times is amazing but this can’t be by chance.
21
It should not be the responsibility of the USTA to develop any future athlete based on the color of their skin. However, following this logic, perhaps we should ask Mr. Andrew Rosenthal why there are not more African Americans on the editorial board of the New York Times.
14
I have come to the conclusion that as a nation we are never going get to the point where race isn't an issue until African Americans and Liberals stop making EVERY SINGLE ISSUE in America about race. Sports is the one arena of American life that rewards ability and achievement and blacks have done pretty well in many sports as a result. In fact they are over represented in several sports and that is a good thing. I guess we need to get past this current generation of race warriors, like Mr. Rhoden, who have experienced discrimination and use it as a way of defining every social issue that we face. I am truly sorry for those who suffered during slavery and the bigotry and discrimination that followed it but I will not apologize for it since I and the vast majority of my fellow white Americans had very little to do with it. Celebrate accomplishment and success. Serena Williams is one of the greatest athletes to every play a sport. She is up there with Babe Ruth, Wayne Gretzky, Jim Brown and Michael Jordan, Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods. Why must we qualify her greatness with her skin color.
19
I'm a liberal and I have to say I totally agree with you. Why did you insist on turning this into a political issue? Can't you put your politics aside on a subject like this?
Maybe young black kids would just rather play football and basketball. Heck, they don't even hardly want to play baseball or soccer, two sports with tons of organized leagues and coaches. Hockey doesn't even show up on their radar screen. Golf and tennis require a lot of one-on-one coaching, are less dependent on natural athletic talent and have zero street cred. Everyone thought Tiger Woods was going to inspire young African-Americans to flock to golf. It didn't happen.
7
This article is really a stretch. The implication of inequality in this particular arena could be applied to any ethnicity. Pure Labor Day filler. I expect more from the Times. There are too many other important issues with race in our society.
8
Tennis has become so competitive, with young people from all over the world trying to rise to the top. To do so requires many more hours of training and practice than it did a generation or two ago. Of course, only so many people can withstand all those hours without breaking down physically or emotionally. Anyone who comes out the other side of that process more or less intact is a remarkable human being, in fact so remarkable that I would consider the process to be largely random. Viewed through that prism I am not sure the US has an African-American tennis problem or any other tennis problem for that matter. Maybe it is just a case where the roulette wheel hasn't landed on the red, white and blue recently.
3
Nick Bolletieri said it best. You could be the 160th best player in football and make a million dollars. If you are the 160th best player in tennis, you are losing money. Outside the top 20, there is not a lot of money to be made.
5
It's pretty obvious that the only solution is to force young Black Americans to play tennis. That they have little interest is not a sufficient reason to duck their responsibility to represent diversity. What right do young Blacks have to prefer basketball, football, and baseball when their duty is to play tennis? They should first be compelled to attend tennis summer camps where they shall receive instruction and reeducation about their mistaken athletic choices.
We can deal with the lack of statistical diversity in the NBA on a later date.
We can deal with the lack of statistical diversity in the NBA on a later date.
11
Identifying the next great African-American talent is tricky business for the United States Tennis Association.
--------------------
Why would they do that? Is not selecting people based on race a racist thing? Seriously, why all the bean counting? When will the next great Italian-American tennis player be found? And how can my self-esteem not be damaged by that lack?
--------------------
Why would they do that? Is not selecting people based on race a racist thing? Seriously, why all the bean counting? When will the next great Italian-American tennis player be found? And how can my self-esteem not be damaged by that lack?
10
In a response above I pointed out that blacks were consistently systemically bbareed from the ranks of American major league sports. One didn't have to picket or write articles of protest to have lowered barriers against the likes of Joe DiMaggio, Phil Rizzuto or a Sal Magliem in major league baseball...because there were none.
And, of course, you know or should know this
And, of course, you know or should know this
obviously we need a quota system, and call it diversity
merit? - 'you didn't build that'
sickening
maybe we should have you know Black Leagues (and DNA tests) and then playoffs, with a tilted playing field, or separate but equal rules of play (oops) - level playing field is for racists
merit? - 'you didn't build that'
sickening
maybe we should have you know Black Leagues (and DNA tests) and then playoffs, with a tilted playing field, or separate but equal rules of play (oops) - level playing field is for racists
4
How sad and pathetic. The writer and the NYT are still stuck in the past and view people by superficial attributes - race, gender, sexual orientation, etc The NYT needs to catch up with the times.
P.S. The NYT is always agitating for equal pay for women. Why not in tennis???? A few years ago the USTA gave in to PC demands to pay the women the same as men. However the men play more sets. And the men's games are more popular bringing in more TV ad revenue. But the self appointed PC police and feminists are immune to logic and apparently can't perform basic arithmetic. Feminists are all for equality except when they benefit from the double standard.
P.S. The NYT is always agitating for equal pay for women. Why not in tennis???? A few years ago the USTA gave in to PC demands to pay the women the same as men. However the men play more sets. And the men's games are more popular bringing in more TV ad revenue. But the self appointed PC police and feminists are immune to logic and apparently can't perform basic arithmetic. Feminists are all for equality except when they benefit from the double standard.
8
Is it not he player's job to win and become better, along with his or her support team? I didn't know that race was an issue in tennis, oh that's right it isn't. Only a certain number of people that write articles think it is. If you want to talk about race, ask someone from Charleston, we know how to deal with it. Take notes.
8
What a creepy article. Do you keep a spreadsheet and say things like, "Whoa, ain't had one of them lately. Guess I'll write a NYT article about it."? When will you get to Amerindians? Jim Thorpe took the world by storm a long time ago. Let talent find its own way to the top and stop meddling.
13
Oh for crying out loud. What an entire waste of time, analysis and valuable column space that could have been put to some better use.
If the courts have trouble with affirmative action, your writers certainly aren't going to solve it by accusations of race being a factor in who has a talent, or who has time, or who can afford to look for talent and put hundreds of thousands of dollars into taking a chance on that talent.
Is it up to society to ensure that the numbers work out fairly?
I've heard it said that it will be a cold day in hell when there are players in the tennis circuit who's name most Americans can pronounce.
I've always figured that sports competition usually lets the most talented (innately and training wise) rise to the top of the sport, especially when there are several years for them to play.
To be equally obnoxious and facetious, one might argue that the National Basketball League needs to do much much more to show a few more Caucasian or Hmong players on the courts, out there among the big tall black dudes. Is your argument about few black players any less ridiculous?
As others here have pointed out, there are a lot of reasons for this to be a problem. I would assume the Polo Association (I'm sure there is one) has a swat team working right now on getting their percentage up high enough so someone in the NYTImes offices doesn't write a scathing review on their lack of diversity.
If the courts have trouble with affirmative action, your writers certainly aren't going to solve it by accusations of race being a factor in who has a talent, or who has time, or who can afford to look for talent and put hundreds of thousands of dollars into taking a chance on that talent.
Is it up to society to ensure that the numbers work out fairly?
I've heard it said that it will be a cold day in hell when there are players in the tennis circuit who's name most Americans can pronounce.
I've always figured that sports competition usually lets the most talented (innately and training wise) rise to the top of the sport, especially when there are several years for them to play.
To be equally obnoxious and facetious, one might argue that the National Basketball League needs to do much much more to show a few more Caucasian or Hmong players on the courts, out there among the big tall black dudes. Is your argument about few black players any less ridiculous?
As others here have pointed out, there are a lot of reasons for this to be a problem. I would assume the Polo Association (I'm sure there is one) has a swat team working right now on getting their percentage up high enough so someone in the NYTImes offices doesn't write a scathing review on their lack of diversity.
9
One way to have more black champions is just to declare one every few years. The white players who have won majors and 5000 point tournaments have only done so based on their privilege. (That wall Djokovic hit against as a youngster didn't have that many pock marks.)
Of course, I'm being facetious. But, logically, is this any different from the non sports world?
Of course, I'm being facetious. But, logically, is this any different from the non sports world?
4
Too my left is a N.Y. Times advertisement featuring a pretty white boy With a body sculpted by Michelangelo.
Could that be why?
The U.S. Open Committee?
Television?
Me?
You?
Them? And I'm not sure who "them" is.
Lord, I'm being infected too.
I know who it is. It's Bill Dwyre. No, it can't be; he works for the other Times..
Could that be why?
The U.S. Open Committee?
Television?
Me?
You?
Them? And I'm not sure who "them" is.
Lord, I'm being infected too.
I know who it is. It's Bill Dwyre. No, it can't be; he works for the other Times..
1
I find this article quite disturbing --- I didn't realize that the President of the USTA has a very focused racial agenda of promoting african americans!
7
It is an elitist sport. Who can afford the time, the energy, the equipment, the travel, the training? It is a sport that can't be played on a street corner or a back yard. It's doors are closed by circumstance. It is my impression that American players come from certain geographical and socio-economic backgrounds. Thus, it does not attract a diverse group.
1
Its always someone else's responsibility. It is not responsibility of the USTA to find and develop black tennis players. The Williams sisters are the best because of personal desire, drive, responsibility and, of course above all, talent. Not to mention parents who encouraged them to believe in themselves and to succeed.
7
If there is another Williams out there, he or she will rise to the top. To suggest otherwise, as this article by William Rhoden does, is really just another form of racism. Take yesterday's match between Serena Williams and another African-American who is ranked 19th in the world and is expected to win her share of Slams in her career, twenty year-old Madison Keys. She lost 3-3 and played like she didn't belong on the same court as Serena. My point: tennis skills are one thing, the heart of a champion is another. And looking under the bed for racist boogie men will never explain the difference between the two. On a larger issue, the New York Times has always taken the lead on writing about issues like race and raising awareness to the inequities that exist within different aspects of society. However, I must say this article is a great example of how more recently the Times has become almost ludicrous in its quest to find racism in every nook and cranny of otherwise legitimate organizations and within the normal trials and tribulations of life. Having read this newspaper for decades it's disappointing to see it becoming a parody of itself on this and other albeit important issues. In journalism, excess dilutes the message. It's sad to see this happening with the Times given how important its message is.
7
They just need to tweak their table of contents a little to make it clear that the news and editorial pages are the same.
The Williams sisters certainly are two of the finest tennis players ever.
But all pro sports is literally a game in which adults play children's game to entertain the masses for the profit of the wealthy.
All pro sports is a mindless void to the voids in the minds of those who participate in them as players, owners or fans.
The only people who are really worthy of our consideration are the people whose livelihoods depend on working in this void...the people who keep the lights on and sell the $10 beers.
But all pro sports is literally a game in which adults play children's game to entertain the masses for the profit of the wealthy.
All pro sports is a mindless void to the voids in the minds of those who participate in them as players, owners or fans.
The only people who are really worthy of our consideration are the people whose livelihoods depend on working in this void...the people who keep the lights on and sell the $10 beers.
I can barely see you up there on your high horse.
Basketball is predominately made up of black players. Football is getting to the same point. Do white people care...no...Just sit back and enjoy the game and stop constantly playing the race card. It gets really tiring.
11
I was riveted by the PBS American Masters program "Althea". I had known almost nothing about Althea Gibson the first black person to win Wimbledon and the USOpen. By the time of her death in 2003 and apparently for years before that, she was persona non grata. I am certainly not qualified to point a finger. Could not the Williams family have offered some dignity to this great woman whose station in life from the beginning was fraught with disadvantage.
2
I always thought that organizations can find and develop players to a certain extent. But then the players must develop themselves into professionals, then champions.
This article seems to ignore what the individual must put in to succeed in a very competitive sport.
This article seems to ignore what the individual must put in to succeed in a very competitive sport.
2
As a citizen of the world, I am pleased to see a nice mix of top players from many different countries. It also seems as if there are plenty of sport opportunities for all races and religions in our schools. I'm not too worried about a statistical anomaly. There must be something else of consequence to write about.
2
My daughter went through junior tennis to become a player at a division one school. If you think there is a lack of diversity then you have blinders on. All through here career there were kids from all back grounds. Many under privilege kids were receiving outside help either from private sources or from the USTA diversity programs. The USTA is just not good at producing championship players.
Why is everything about race. Tsonga is not referred to as African-French. He is just French. Lets get rid of the hyphen and the first this and the first that and just consider ourselves as Americans. We don't need more conversation about race, we need less.
Why is everything about race. Tsonga is not referred to as African-French. He is just French. Lets get rid of the hyphen and the first this and the first that and just consider ourselves as Americans. We don't need more conversation about race, we need less.
9
Same with Gael Monfils and Yanick Noah.
Most college tennis players are not from the U.S. What really needs to happen is that colleges should be forced to recruit US players!
Why this recent concern about more blacks in tennis? Or on TV? Or movies? Or politics, for that matter? Let's keep our a perspective? Blacks make up only 14 % of our population in the U.S. Why is there not an equal emphasis on more Asians? More Hispanics? Etc. Etc? Statistically, blacks make a great showing in all of the above when you calculate their numbers in our country.
4
Today this state of affairs is more due to math than race.
The British Lawn Tennis Association estimates it costs about £250,000 ($385,000) to develop a player from age 5 to 18. (source: Bloomberg). Assuming costs are spread evenly over the 13 years it is ~$30,000 per year.
Median income for African-Americans: $30,134. (source: US census bureau)
Based on these 2 data points, it is not surprising that African-Americans are priced out of tennis, and are more represented in sports where facilities are available (neighborhood basketball court) and entry costs are cheap (one basketball).
The British Lawn Tennis Association estimates it costs about £250,000 ($385,000) to develop a player from age 5 to 18. (source: Bloomberg). Assuming costs are spread evenly over the 13 years it is ~$30,000 per year.
Median income for African-Americans: $30,134. (source: US census bureau)
Based on these 2 data points, it is not surprising that African-Americans are priced out of tennis, and are more represented in sports where facilities are available (neighborhood basketball court) and entry costs are cheap (one basketball).
1
The U.S.A. are still loaded with racist discrimination. This article is barking up the wrong tree however.
2
The Times ran an article on this same subject just as the U.S. Open was getting underway a couple of weeks ago. Then, as now, (based on the comments you received) readers were scratching their heads wondering why this was even a story.
If there were no African Americans playing at the pro level, as a result of pervasive racism, that would be news. But that's not the case, and trying to make it seem to be an issue, with the Williams sisters dominating the women's tennis scene, is false and misleading.
If there were no African Americans playing at the pro level, as a result of pervasive racism, that would be news. But that's not the case, and trying to make it seem to be an issue, with the Williams sisters dominating the women's tennis scene, is false and misleading.
10
It is not the responsibility of the USTA to get more Blacks in tennis. It is the responsibility of Blacks to get more Blacks in tennis. Richard Williams did not go to USTA and beg them to help him get Venus and Serena in tennis. He had a vision for his young daughters and was willing to make the sacrifice to make it reality for them. In fact if he had followed the model of the USTA there is a good possibility that Venus and Serena would not be the great tennis players and individuals they are today.
If the USTA wants to get more Blacks in tennis maybe it should consult with Richard Williams to work with other Black parents to do for their kids who want to pursue tennis what he did for Venus and Serena.
The late James Brown had a song that said "I don't want nobody to give me nothing. Open up the door and I will get it myself." Richard Williams has shown that the door to tennis is open. Blacks must be willing to walk through it as Venus and Serena has done and get it themselves. It is about priority and sacrifice.
If the USTA wants to get more Blacks in tennis maybe it should consult with Richard Williams to work with other Black parents to do for their kids who want to pursue tennis what he did for Venus and Serena.
The late James Brown had a song that said "I don't want nobody to give me nothing. Open up the door and I will get it myself." Richard Williams has shown that the door to tennis is open. Blacks must be willing to walk through it as Venus and Serena has done and get it themselves. It is about priority and sacrifice.
18
Any chance that the United States Tennis Association is going to go on a "mission" to "develop" a Sri Lankan-American tennis champ?
I didn't know that professional sports associations were in the business of looking for talent according to people's races or ethnicity. I thought that when real talent and prowess made their way to the tennis courts -- and absent official racism -- they were acknowledged and given a chance to play as was, decades ago, Anthea Gibson.
As a teenager, I had an old wooden tennis racket that I used to hit balls against the garage door (a rarity in Brooklyn!) of my long-suffering great-aunt. How nice of her not to mind the noise. Needless to say, I didn't make it into professional tennis either.
I didn't know that professional sports associations were in the business of looking for talent according to people's races or ethnicity. I thought that when real talent and prowess made their way to the tennis courts -- and absent official racism -- they were acknowledged and given a chance to play as was, decades ago, Anthea Gibson.
As a teenager, I had an old wooden tennis racket that I used to hit balls against the garage door (a rarity in Brooklyn!) of my long-suffering great-aunt. How nice of her not to mind the noise. Needless to say, I didn't make it into professional tennis either.
3
Tennis is an expensive sport, primarily in terms of training, but also in terms of equipment, so it is to be expected that there will be an economic, not racial, filter. The same holds true for figure skating and gymnastics, sports where the top performers typically live at training academies (not inexpensive). If you look at American sports as a whole, the entire racial bias argument collapses: basketball and football are dominated by players of color. Baseball is thoroughly integrated, with a large number of Hispanic players. Track and field is dominated by athletes of color, certainly in the sprint events, and although they tend to be North African, equally the distance events. In most American sports, we can truly claim to be "post-racial."
2
Whites are losing ground in football and basketball and given time, Blacks will gain ground in tennis. Its a different venue for crying out loud. Why does everything have to be about race.
5
Too often, the "reflection of society & culture" argument is used to justify racist discrimination. But maybe this really is just that.
The normally politically correct commenters to NY Times articles can see the obvious with this one. You have completely jumped the shark. The best tennis players in America ARE black. Isn't a better question, where are all the great white players and what are they doing instead of tennis?
49
Right now Americans would cheer for a male Martian if he could make the top ten no matter win a major. It is time for Mr. Rhoden to realize that he is a dinosaur in the 21st century, his columns continue to make this 67 year old shake his head in disbelief as to how far our of touch he is.. Pop quiz Mr. Rhoden, who was the last American male to win a grand slam event? The answer Andy Roddick in 2003. That is 48 Grand Slams and Mr. Rhoden is wailing about lack of Black opportunity. He is delusional.
2
Why has the USTA not identified another great Iranian-American champion since Agassi? Is the USTA prejudiced against Iranian-Americans?
48
Don't you get it? Rhoden is black, and he figured out a long time ago that sports are all about whether or not you're black. Never mind the fact that the rest of the world produces talent based on whoever picks up a racket and works hard, and that the men's game is dominated by a Croat, a Spaniard, a Swiss, and a Scot.
6
What I have noticed about tennis in our area is that it is a sport that is played by primarily those who can afford the club and the lessons. Since the economy crashed, the numbers of families participating seems to have dropped precipitously.
Most playing on our high school teams are the sons and daughters of the professional class - engineers, doctors are well represented - so there is diversity of ethnicity more than there is diversity of economic background. Our teams are largely comprised of Indian-Americans, Chinese Americans, a few white kids, and a few African American kids. The common thread isn't race or ethnicity, but the ability to afford college resume-building.
If it is expensive to develop a high school player, what does it cost to develop a pro? To me, it is a wonder we have any kids who get to that level, let alone a representation of all American races and ethnicities.
Most playing on our high school teams are the sons and daughters of the professional class - engineers, doctors are well represented - so there is diversity of ethnicity more than there is diversity of economic background. Our teams are largely comprised of Indian-Americans, Chinese Americans, a few white kids, and a few African American kids. The common thread isn't race or ethnicity, but the ability to afford college resume-building.
If it is expensive to develop a high school player, what does it cost to develop a pro? To me, it is a wonder we have any kids who get to that level, let alone a representation of all American races and ethnicities.
23
Why are we asking, where the next black champion is coming from? Who cares? My question is, where is the next American champion coming from?
There as been a concerted effort to promote tennis in the black communitis for over 40 yrs. in this country with Donald Young being the example. The U.S.T.A. afforded him more wild cards into the U.S. Open than at a poker match in Las Vegas. The U.S.T.A. should now focus on Latinos, Asians & South Indians as the new minorities in the U.S. For some reason tennis, especially the men's game hasn't translated with the African American community.
There as been a concerted effort to promote tennis in the black communitis for over 40 yrs. in this country with Donald Young being the example. The U.S.T.A. afforded him more wild cards into the U.S. Open than at a poker match in Las Vegas. The U.S.T.A. should now focus on Latinos, Asians & South Indians as the new minorities in the U.S. For some reason tennis, especially the men's game hasn't translated with the African American community.
27
Forget the next African-American champion - how about the next American singles champion, period? The Williams sisters famously spurned the USTA system as youths. Remove them from the equation, and the USTA has produced zero champions since Roddick in 2003, with no clear prospects on the immediate horizon either.
36
Not sure I get the premise of this article. The USTA hasn't produced any champions of any sort in a good long while, and can't lay claim to the Williams sisters.
31
Here we go again. This newspaper is back to what they thinks is a populist angle. Someone really has some serious issues on the Editorial Board and should not be allowed to continue on this newspaper. Blacks make up just 13% of the population - yet these articles of angst of endless. A hundred years hence one might think homosexuals, Latinos and and people of Asian descent simply didn't exist in this country. This is why I'm voting Republican - one segment of society has hijacked America.
48
You're point is very well taken. But please, don't vote Republican!
You start of your lament by quoting Ronald Reagan and then amplify a popular rant of the right. I doubt very much that this is the first time you'll be voting for a republican.
3
Number23.
Nasty, nasty.
Nasty, nasty.
This not a black and white thing. American tennis is in a sorry state right now. Outside of the Williams sisters, there have not been any American champions for close to fifteen years. Just not a popular sport in US today.
20
First of all, the best athletes, black, hispanic and white, do not seek out tennis. They play football, basketball, baseball and now soccer. Lacrosse has now become the sport of choice for many kids. Tennis is expensive and very time consuming for players and parents. Travel and schedules eat up entire weekends in a quest for points to elevate status. This is a flawed system. The two best players still active, Serena and Venus were coached by their dad, Richard, and little help was offered to them until they became champions. The current champions on the men's side were essentially committed to tennis by the age of 5. There are not a lot of alternatives if the player is injured or simply doesn't make it. Even junior champions like Donald Young don't get to the top. Young, for certain, has been mismanaged by his parents. Richard Williams deserves a great deal of credit for creating two champions on his own.
12
What is most different about the Williams sisters is not that they're black, but that they're blacks from Compton. I don't know how many professional tennis players come from the ghetto, but I'd guess two. I'd guess the same is true for golf and swimming,, among other sports. For any of these sports, money and instruction must be widely available for ghetto kids.
6
How about an article about the lack of proportionate racial representation in NBA basketball?
82
When 2 blacks from the slums were given the opportunity, they dominated tennis. So there is reason to believe that the quality of white tennis is substandard. Whites from all over have the opportunity to play basketball and few excel. So there is no reason to believe that basketball is substandard. Your comment equating the two misses the point entirely. Congratulations, your comment has been rejected by the logic police.
@michjas, a/k/a "logic police"
73 to 1, I do not think you have logic on your side.
73 to 1, I do not think you have logic on your side.
1
Your desire for an equal and opposite appraisal of race in a different sport as a way to perhaps call attention to the hypocrisy and absurdity that exists in discussions of race today is likely simply a reflection of your denial of white privilege and your lack of regard for the fact that such a flippant comment could only be made from a white pedestal that has bestowed you with a power advantage and a free pass to all that is good in life.
If you disagree with this notion, that would be further evidence of your denial.
If you disagree with this notion, that would be further evidence of your denial.
1
Tennis is essentially a white man's sport which appeals to upper middle-class pretensions. The biggest change in recent years is that one no longer has to wear only whites on the court although "whites only" still seems to characterize the membership of the snooty tennis clubs. Serena and Venus are exceptions because their sheer athleticism overcomes all opposition. They are in their own league, but for this very reason they do not represent a trend toward greater acceptance of black women in the sport of tennis. Black men ate even rarer. The last one I can remember is Arthur Ashe.
4
I'm not sure what sport you are referring to. Many of the players I know are neither white nor men. Most tennis clubs are not exclusive or "snooty", rather they are businesses focused on renting courts and selling lessons. The image you portray of tennis is both archaic and inaccurate.
24
Please name a tennis club that has a white only policy. Just one. And if you can't then realize that the racism you see comes from within your own racist heart. Stop dividing people according to skin color.
2
I don't understand the issue.
There are only five Americans that are ranked in the top 100 and Young is one of them so how is there a void.
There are only five Americans that are ranked in the top 100 and Young is one of them so how is there a void.
59
I don't understand either. Chalk it up to the latest faux outrage against "the system". ....and what about Latinos?
Further, I wonder if the Euro based tennis associations are working on programs to achieve more Muslim representation.
Further, I wonder if the Euro based tennis associations are working on programs to achieve more Muslim representation.
25
precisely. the reality of modern era international elite level sport is that no one country can expect to dominate in a dynastic sense as they once did (let alone 'slices' of the demographic pie within a given country!). And the NYT should just drop the hyphenated-American editorial angle. please.
It is amazing when you think of the amount of top quality tennis players that Europe produces, compared to the US, given the similar populations. You could say the Eastern Europeans are "hungrier" for it perhaps, but doesnt explain why affluent western Europe produces so many. Federer, Murray, Nadal all come from fairly average middle class backgrounds. Why is there such a push for minorities in the US, is the implication that white Americans can't play tennis as well as white Europeans?
19
Tennis, like golf, still remains an individual, country club sport, where the 10,000 hours required to gain expertise, remain beyond the reach of all but a select few. There are only a fer Earl Woods' or Richard Williams' who have the time patience or resources to help their children succeed.
5
I'm squarely middle class and I can't afford tennis club fees, or even guest fees. Why don't liberals donate millions to cover the cost of club fees for anyone who wants to join? Please contact me to make a donation.
2
A tired lament. The author might as well deplore the relative shortage of championship black golfers, race car drivers, swimmers, hockey players, etc. African-Americans with the talent and desire will rise to the top in any field of endeavor and with or without the assistance of organizations like the USTA.
45
It would be better for diversity if the U.S. Tennis Open could be held in different U.S. cities and not exclusively in Queens, New York. I believe it's the only sport (other than Little League Baseball) whose championship in the U.S. is confined to a single venue - inevitably limiting interest outside of New York. How did that come about and what do you think of that, Mr. Rhoden?
7
The problem is stated correctly, but it is a problem beyond race--the USTA has also not developed any white, or Hispanic, or Asian (remember Michael Chang) stars in the US either. Look at our male Davis Cup team--we have two or three top 25 players to choose from; Croatia, Serbia, Spain, and France have numerous top 25 or top 50 players. But hooray for what we have: Donald Young and John Isner are doing great at the YS Open.
4
Show me another city that has committed 1/1000th the amount of money to creating tennis facilities. Your proposal is ludicrous, like suggesting that we would have more political efficacy if we relocated the capital.
4
A more interesting question is: Where are the Hispanic-American stars? There are now significantly more Latinos than blacks in the U.S., but where are they in tennis?
It's not that they don't have role models: Pancho Gonzales, a Mexican-American from the Los Angeles barrio, won the U.S. championship in New York in 1948 and 1949 and reached the quarterfinals of the U.S. Open in 1968 at age 40. He was the top ranked pro player in the world from 1952-1960.
But there doesn't seem to be much media attention on the missing Mexican-Americans of tennis.
It's not that they don't have role models: Pancho Gonzales, a Mexican-American from the Los Angeles barrio, won the U.S. championship in New York in 1948 and 1949 and reached the quarterfinals of the U.S. Open in 1968 at age 40. He was the top ranked pro player in the world from 1952-1960.
But there doesn't seem to be much media attention on the missing Mexican-Americans of tennis.
37
Do you suppose they aren't much interested in the game?
1
Madison Keys does not identify as African-American.
14
Why focus exclusively on finding the next Black tennis player? Why not include Asians and Hispanics in this quest for diversity in this primarily all-white sport? The Michael Chang (Chinese) is a former grand slam winner and hall of famer. Pancho Gonzales (Mexican) is one of the all-time tennis greats, a pioneer, and hall of famer. Pancho Segura (Equadorean) is a hall of famer.
Why isn't the USTA looking for Asian and Hispanic tennis players as well as African-Americans. Real diversity is more than just adding Blacks to the tennis mix. There are more than two races in this country who are not playing tennis--which the media apparently doesn't notice or care about.
Why isn't the USTA looking for Asian and Hispanic tennis players as well as African-Americans. Real diversity is more than just adding Blacks to the tennis mix. There are more than two races in this country who are not playing tennis--which the media apparently doesn't notice or care about.
59
Because it is the United States Tennis Association not Mexican or Asian
2
Nadal, doesn't count in the Hispanic category?
He's really not a bad player...
He's really not a bad player...
Fyi Chang, Gonzales, and Segura are all great American players.
The very thesis of this article is beneath contempt.
89
All tennis players matter, JB?
5
"The very thesis of this article is beneath contempt."
It seems to me that we hear a lot in The Times about angry disadvantaged inner-city blacks. I wonder if the op-eds, editorials, and slanted "news" articles are making that very substantial number of hard-working black people, and black people who have "made it" by dint of hard work, intelligence, and creativity, at least as angry. Because the tenor of The Times suggests that successful blacks are by definition flukes.
It seems to me that we hear a lot in The Times about angry disadvantaged inner-city blacks. I wonder if the op-eds, editorials, and slanted "news" articles are making that very substantial number of hard-working black people, and black people who have "made it" by dint of hard work, intelligence, and creativity, at least as angry. Because the tenor of The Times suggests that successful blacks are by definition flukes.
7