Fifty Years of the WTA
Before the “Original 9,” there was Gladys Heldman, who launched the women's tennis revolution
By Jan 24, 2023Jack Sock wins at Dallas Open, set to face top-seeded Fritz
By Feb 07, 2023Clay is months away, but Ben Shelton is ready
By Feb 07, 2023Social
WATCH: Marta Kostyuk dances through audio issue after Abu Dhabi victory
By Feb 06, 2023Davis Cup
Even after three gloomy years, the Davis Cup spirit is very much alive among fans and players
By Feb 06, 2023Anti-Doping
Brazilian tennis player hit Gilbert Klier Junior with 12-month doping ban
By Feb 06, 2023Social
Jon Bon Jovi 'inspired' after reading Roger Federer biography
By Feb 06, 2023Facts & Stats
Ranking Reaction: Alycia Parks on the brink of Top 50 after winning first WTA title in Lyon
By Feb 06, 2023Social
Sloane Stephens meets Sloane Stephens in Dallas
By Feb 05, 2023Davis Cup
Croatia advances in Davis Cup as Coric beats Thiem
By Feb 05, 2023Fifty Years of the WTA
Before the “Original 9,” there was Gladys Heldman, who launched the women's tennis revolution
Watch the first-part of our year-long series on the 50th anniversary of the WTA Tour.
Published Jan 24, 2023
Advertising
Advertising

"Thanks for taking us a 'long way,'" reads the plaque on this bronze sculpture—given to Gladys Helman from "The Goils." It currently resides at the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, R.I., which will commemorate the WTA Tour's 50th anniversary this year.
Advertising
Advertising
Advertising

Gladys Heldman died on June 22, 2003. At the 2019 US Open, Billie Jean King, Rosie Casals and members of the Original 9 honored Heldman at Flushing Meadows.
© Getty Images