A Quick Hit Through Tennis History

Over the years, tennis has evolved from a simple court sport to a global phenomenon – but it hasn't always been the game we know today. Let's take a look back through history to explore the origins of the sport, the courts, and the champions...

'Jeu de paume' (game of palm) originated in 12th-century France. Hence the name, players would use their hands to hit the ball. By the 16th century the game evolved to include racquets, often made out of wood with strings made of cow intestine!

The 19th century transformed tennis onto grass courts and Wimbledon emerged as the first grand tournament, setting the standard for a new era of competitions. This postcard from 1877 shows the beginnings of the event as a mass spectator sport, reminiscent of the games we love to watch today.

Founded in 1907, this pioneering publication ignited tennis enthusiasm across the US. It provided coverage, rules, and fashion, shaping the sport's culture for years to come.

With the early 20th century witnessing the rise of tennis as a global sport, legends like Suzanne Lenglen and Bill Tilden captivated audiences with their skill and charisma. In 1956, Althea Gibson became the first African American to win a Grand Slam event!

1968 marked the start of a new chapter of tennis as amateur and professional players were allowed to compete together for the first time in history, with Arthur Ashe taking home the US Open title.

Recent decades have seen a new generation of pros, with the Williams sisters redefining women's tennis. Their powerful games secured multiple Grand Slam titles, as well as inspiring tennis fashion on and off the court.