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Melissa Koby: The First Black Artist for the US Open — man in black jacket holding red and black tennis racket

Melissa Koby: The First Black Artist for the US OpenCEFR A1

20 Aug 2025

Adapted from Candice Stewart, Global Voices CC BY 3.0

Photo by Barnabas Lartey-Odoi Tetteh, Unsplash

AI-assisted adaptation of the original article, simplified for language learners.

  • Melissa Koby is an artist.
  • She is from Jamaica.
  • Koby created art for the US Open.
  • This is the first time a Black artist has done this.
  • Her art honors Althea Gibson, a famous tennis player.
  • Althea broke barriers in tennis.

Difficult words

  • artistA person who creates art.
  • createTo make something new.
    created
  • honorTo show respect or admiration.
    honors
  • barrierAn obstacle that stops progress.
    barriers
  • famousWell-known or recognized by many people.

Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.

Discussion questions

  • Why is it important for artists to be recognized?
  • How can art influence society?
  • What barriers do you think artists face today?

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