Ted Dimond Brings Tennis Icons to Canvas at US Open “Trailblazers” Exhibition

At The Player Party, celebrated sports portrait artist Ted Dimond unveiled two new portraits of US Open contenders Frances Tiafoe and Flavio Cobolli at a star-studded event featuring appearances by both players. Dimond also debuted an impressive tribute artwork honoring Althea Gibson, who is being recognized at the 2025 US Open for breaking tennis’ color barrier 75 years ago.

Returning to Manhattan for his seventh year, Dimond’s signature US Open gallery exhibition, Trailblazers: On & Off the Court, runs August 18–28, 2025 at Detour Gallery in New York City (545 West 23rd Street).

Photo courtesy of Sarah Gargano Communications / Ted Dimond.

Known for his bold oil paintings timed to capture the energy and anticipation surrounding tennis’ biggest stage in the United States, Trailblazers honors athletes who have redefined the sport — not just for their achievements on court, but for their cultural, social, and humanitarian impact off court. These are players who have used their platforms to break barriers, inspire change, and expand tennis’ global reach to motivate the next generation.

This year, the US Open spotlights Althea Gibson to mark the 75th anniversary of her historic 1950 debut as the first Black player to compete in what later became the US Open. Gibson will be honored inside Arthur Ashe Stadium on August 24. Dimond created a legacy portrait to celebrate her pioneering role not just as a champion but as a symbol of progress and opportunity whose courage opened the sport to generations of players of color.

Photo courtesy of Sarah Gargano Communications / Ted Dimond.

Dimond also painted a legacy portrait of Arthur Ashe, whom he met at age 13 during a national tennis tournament in Flushing. Ashe — his grandfather’s favorite player — was the first Black man to win the US Open (1968), Australian Open (1970), and Wimbledon (1975), and he used his voice to challenge racial barriers and advocate for inclusion.

Photo courtesy of Sarah Gargano Communications / Ted Dimond.

“As a former professional tennis player and coach, I know firsthand the dedication, sacrifice, and love for the game it takes to reach the top. These unveiling moments are deeply personal to me, not just as an artist, but as someone who understands what these players have endured and achieved. This isn’t just an art show; it’s a tribute to those who have shaped tennis on their own terms. I want people to walk in and feel the history, the grit, the greatness, captured on canvas.” – Ted Dimond

A portion of the show’s proceeds — along with the two legacy portraits — will benefit each player’s respective foundation or chosen charity, carrying forward their impact for generations to come.

===

Courtesy of  Sarah Gargano Communications / Ted Dimond. Top photo credit: Sarah Gargano Communications / Ted Dimond.