Taylor's legacy lies in his willingness to challenge racial prejudice as an African American athlete in the white-dominated sport of cycling. He was also hailed as a sports hero in France and Australia. Taylor, who became a role model for other athletes facing racial prejudice and discrimination, [5] was "the first great black celebrity athlete" and a pioneer in his efforts to challenge segregation in sports . He also paved the way for others facing similar circumstances. [55] Taylor explained in his autobiography that he had no other African Americans to offer him advice and "therefore had to blaze my own trail." [128]