Black Players' Dinner at French Open Sparks Conversation

Naomi Osaka and Taylor Townsend organized a dinner for black players before the French Open, drawing attention and some online criticism.

Townsend responded by quoting rap lyrics and said the event was "good for the culture."

"It was good for the culture." — Taylor Townsend

Attendees and Purpose

Attendees included Coco Gauff, Gael Monfils, Asia Muhammad, and Chris Eubanks. Osaka noted that being a minority in tennis can be isolating and stressed the importance of camaraderie.

On-Court Action

Townsend and doubles partner Kateřina Siniaková advanced to the quarterfinals. Meanwhile, Gauff, the defending champion, was eliminated in the third round.

A ceremony honored Althea Gibson's 1956 French Open victory. Former USTA president Katrina Adams recalled similar gatherings in the 1980s and 1990s.

A Friendship Rooted in Shared Values

Osaka and Townsend became friends after Osaka invited Townsend to Turks and Caicos last year. Both are mothers and share common values.