Althea Gibson Statue 173-235 Heller Parkway, Newark, NJ 07104

Welcome to the Althea Gibson Statue, a tribute to one of the most trailblazing athletes in history. Located at 173-235 Heller Parkway in Newark, New Jersey, this statue honors Althea Gibson, famously known as the "Jackie Robinson of Tennis." As the first African-American to compete on the professional tennis circuit, Gibson shattered racial barriers and paved the way for future generations of athletes. In 1958, she was celebrated as the #1 female athlete globally, achieving remarkable victories in singles and doubles at Wimbledon, the US Open, the Australian Open, and the French Open. Beyond tennis, she also broke new ground in golf, becoming the first African-American to join the LPGA.

Jay's sculpture of Gibson was unveiled on March 28, 2012, during the dedication of the newly renovated Althea Gibson Tennis Center in Branch Brook Park, Newark. This iconic statue not only commemorates her extraordinary accomplishments but also serves as an enduring symbol of courage, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of equality in sports. Visit us to explore this inspiring monument and celebrate the legacy of a true sports pioneer.