Tennis

The History of Tennis

By hwastyk
  • Mar 20, 1100

    Jeu de Paume

    First form of tennis originates in France, but the ball is struck with the hand rather than rackets.
  • Mar 20, 1480

    Early Materials of the Tennis Ball

    During this time, tennis balls were stuffed with anything between the finest wool and human hair. They were covered in leather or the lining of sheep belly.
  • Mar 20, 1500

    "Real Tennis"

    Rackets are used to hit the ball, but it is played indoors so the ball can bounce off walls.
  • Mar 20, 1515

    Francis I of France

    Francis I of France is one of the first notable figures to make tennis popular.

  • Birth of Lawn Tennis

    Tennis is first played outside on a croquet field.

  • Rubber ball emerges

    Vulcanized rubber is invented and becomes the main material in the tennis ball.

  • First Ever Wimbleton

    The first major tournament took place in England and is known as Wimbleton.

  • First US Open

    The popularity of tennis grows to America and the first ever US Open is held.

  • Frist French Open

    While the French Open is regarded as a Major today, it was not christened this until 1925 when it opened competition to all nationalities.

  • First Australian Open

    Because of the geographic isolation, the Australian Open was not initially well attended, but has since grown greatly.

  • International Tennis Federation Created

    The birth of the International Tennis Federation stipulated many solid rules that have stood the test of time.

  • The Open Era Begins

    The Open Era allowed amateurs to enter and compete in the Majors, allowing all players a chance to make a living off tennis.