Final answer:
The ATA (American Tennis Association) was the African American tennis association before African American players could compete in USTA (United States Tennis Association) events.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main answer to the student's question is B) ATA (American Tennis Association). The American Tennis Association was founded in 1916 as a response to the exclusion of African American players from the USTA (United States Tennis Association). It was the first sports organization in the United States aimed at supporting black players in the sport of tennis and has played a crucial role in developing tennis talent within black communities. The ATA organized its own tournaments and championships because African American players were barred from USTA-sanctioned events, including the prestigious U.S. National Championships (now known as the U.S. Open).For more than half a century, the ATA served as the governing body for African American tennis players, providing an alternative circuit and advocating for racial integration in the sport. Noteworthy tennis icons, such as Althea Gibson, came up through the ranks of the ATA before going on to achieve historic success in USTA and Grand Slam tournaments.In conclusion, before winning in USTA competitions, the African American tennis association was the ATA, which played a pivotal role in tennis history by ensuring African American players had a platform to compete and showcase their talents during times of segregation.