Breaking Barriers: Melissa Koby Becomes First Black Woman Commissioned for U.S. Open Art
Jamaican-born artist Melissa Koby, now based in Tampa, Florida, has broken new ground by becoming the first Black woman ever commissioned to create the official theme artwork for the 2025 US Open.
A historic commission
In honor of the 75th anniversary of Althea Gibson breaking tennis’s color barrier, the US Open introduced a new official design. Koby was selected to visualize the theme of “breaking barriers” through a striking and layered illustration. Her selection marks a milestone in the tournament’s history—not only for her nationality, but for her being the first Black woman to hold this role.
About Melissa Koby
Born in Jamaica and now living in Tampa, Koby works primarily as an illustrator and visual artist. Her art frequently explores themes of social justice and celebrates people of color. She employs a mixed-media approach combining watercolor with digital illustration; her figures often lack distinct facial features so that each viewer might project themselves into the work.
Honoring Althea Gibson’s legacy
Althea Gibson is a foundational figure in tennis. She broke the colour barrier in the United States national championships (later the US Open) in 1950, becoming the first Black player to compete at that level. She went on to claim five major titles and paved the way for future generations of Black women athletes.
Koby’s artwork reflects this legacy: Gibson’s silhouette appears alongside symbols like a US Open-blue tennis court, the Statue of Liberty, Arthur Ashe Stadium, and the Tiffany trophies awarded to champions. Each element was intentionally chosen to tell part of Gibson’s story and the broader story of Black excellence in tennis.
Where you’ll see it
Koby’s design will be displayed throughout the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center during the 2025 US Open—on banners, posters and installations across the venue—making the visual tribute one of the first things fans encounter.
What it means
For Koby, this commission is more than a personal achievement—it’s an opportunity to inspire. She sees her role as part of Gibson’s larger story, and hopes her artwork will encourage young Black girls—whether they’re aspiring creators, athletes, or change-makers—to see themselves in the journey.
While aware of her role’s historic nature, Koby emphasises that her focus is telling Gibson’s story rather than centering her own. She says it’s an honor to play even a small role in that legacy.
