Ray Giubilo, a longtime tennis photographer, recently drew national attention after snapping one of the most spectacular photos ever taken on a tennis court at the US Open. Giubilo has been fortunate enough to spend seven months of her year traveling the global tennis circuit. He is recognized for shooting as many as 20 games per day, working strenuous 14-hour shifts. His commitment to the sport and his craft culminated in a one-in-a-million shot at Flushing Meadows, immortalizing a moment that has garnered acclaim from players and fans alike.
That beautiful picture was snapped during Jasmine Paolini and Destanee Aiava’s first-round match. During those 37 years, Giubilo has always focused on what tennis means. The first time he viewed the photo on the rear screen of his Nikon Z9, he knew it was a big deal. “I’ve been waiting for a long time for something like this,” he remarked, reflecting on the anticipation that led to this capture.
In the second photo, Paolini hitting her forehand and landing in a very on-brand, off-balance position. This funny interaction only helps the comedic payoff of the single take. Giubilo pointed out that timing was everything—as little as a nanosecond earlier or later would have yielded an entirely different frame. His sharp eye and long experience allowed him to set up the shot very quickly. This just showed his immense respect and understanding of the details of the game.
Jasmine Paolini, the protagonist of the shot, celebrated the image, calling it “perhaps the picture of the year.” After her match she followed Giubilo down the tunnel after her second-round encounter to tell him just how much she loved his work. This endorsement from a high-profile athlete further elevates the portrait’s significance. It shines a new light on its place in tennis history.
Prior to becoming a professional photographer, Giubilo had previously been an agent for a tennis clothing company in Australia. His love for the sport drove him to dedicate himself fully to portraying tennis’ unique spirit. He was coached by tennis greats John Newcombe and John Alexander. Encouraged, he began to take photographs of local matches, a decision that set his remarkable career in motion.
Giubilo’s attention to detail, combined with his artistic disposition, is apparent in every aspect of the way he works. “You have to be patient, you have to be fast, you have to be fit,” he stated, emphasizing the physical and mental demands of being on the tennis circuit. His agility and calm under pressure make him a consistent champion.