Dynamic, strong-minded and gutsy, Gladys M. Heldman (b.1922) fought and won the battle for parity in women’s professional tennis. A Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Stanford, Heldman took up tennis at age 25 following her marriage to scientist Julius Heldman, former U.S. junior champion. She became devoted to the game, achieving a ranking within two years and competing at Forest Hills and Wimbledon.

In 1953, she founded World Tennis magazine. During her highly successful 20-year tenure as magazine editor and publisher, Heldman served as a leading advocate for players. In 1970, with women receiving a fraction of men’s prize money, Heldman organized the first professional tournament for women; she obtained sponsorship from Virginia Slims and launched the women’s pro circuit. In 1979, Heldman joined a select group of non-players to be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.