Darlene Hard
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Darlene Ruth Hard was an American professional tennis player, known for her aggressive volleying ability and strong serves. She captured singles titles at the French Championships in 1960 and the U.S.
Hard at the 1957 Wimbledon Singles Championships.
Queen Elizabeth II presents the Wimbledon championship trophy to Althea Gibson as Darlene Hard, at left, looks on (July 6, 1957).
Althea Gibson
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Althea Neale Gibson was an American tennis player and professional golfer, and one of the first Black athletes to cross the color line of international tennis. In 1956, she became the first Black play
Darlene Hard
…in 1957, 1960, and 1961. The Miami Herald ranked her No. 1 for the 1961 season. In 1957, she made her first Wimbledon finals appearance, losing to Althea Gibson. Hard was included in the year-end top-10 rankings issued by the United States Lawn Tennis Association from 1954 through 1963. Charles Friedman wrote…
Gibson in 1956
Gibson is congratulated by Darlene Hard after defeating her in the 1957 Wimbledon women's singles championship. The pair were Wimbledon women's doubles champions the same year.
Gibson receives a ticker tape parade upon returning to New York City (July 11, 1957).