Tennis is a sport.

The event happened on Monday, June 1, 2026, at 11:34 am.

Naomi Osaka and Taylor Townsend are friends now.

Naomi Osaka and Taylor Townsend are winning at the French Open.

They had a dinner party for black players before the tournament.

Taylor Townsend said the reaction to the dinner was funny because black players are often a minority in tennis.

Now, coming together seems like a problem to some people.

Most people reacted positively to the dinner on Instagram, but some were critical.

Some comments said the dinner was 'segregation', and one person asked when there would be parties for other groups.

Taylor Townsend quoted a rapper to respond to the criticism.

Taylor also quoted Tupac Shakur to talk about the importance of black community.

Taylor thanked Naomi for hosting a meaningful dinner.

The dinner was good for the culture and the soul.

Many players attended the dinner, including Coco Gauff and Chris Eubanks.

Naomi Osaka said she felt isolated as a minority in tennis, but the dinner made her feel like she was with family.

Naomi said the dinner was a special moment for all the players.

Black athletes often have to talk about political issues, like Muhammad Ali did.

The dinner was healing for the players to share their experiences.

Coco Gauff lost in the third round, but Naomi Osaka is doing well in the tournament.

Taylor Townsend and her partner are winning in doubles.

Coco Gauff beat Taylor Townsend in the first round.

A ceremony honored Althea Gibson's win at the French Open 70 years ago.

Althea Gibson was the first black player to win a grand slam title.

Coco Gauff said she and Taylor are playing because of Althea Gibson's legacy.

Coco is grateful for players like Althea Gibson and the Williams sisters who paved the way.

Althea Gibson was a pioneer in tennis and civil rights.

The dinner party reminds us of how black athletes and artists used to gather to celebrate each other.

Katrina Adams, a former tennis player, is happy to see this tradition continue.

In the past, black players used to have 'Soul Food' Sundays at Wimbledon.

Players like Zina Garrison hosted these gatherings for years.

Taylor Townsend and Naomi Osaka didn't know each other well before they became friends.

Naomi surprised Taylor by inviting her on a vacation.

Taylor and Naomi had a great time on vacation and became close friends.

They talked about their values and how they want to be good mothers.

Their friendship goes beyond tennis.

The ABC of SPORT

Monday, June 1, 2026, at 11:34 am.

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