The Origins of Tennis

Played with Bare Hands

Tennis, as it is known today, has its roots in a French game called "jeu de paume" or "game of the palm." Initially, players used their bare hands to hit the ball. It wasn’t until the 16th century that rackets were introduced, giving the sport a new dimension.

20 interesting Tennis Facts

Video by Tav Chlordane

Indoor Beginnings

Unlike the outdoor courts seen today, tennis was originally played indoors. Monasteries in France hosted the game to avoid interruptions caused by weather, laying the foundation for its popularity.

Unforgettable Matches

The Longest Match

In 2010, Wimbledon witnessed history as John Isner and Nicolas Mahut played a match that lasted 11 hours and 5 minutes, spread over three days. The epic contest ended with a score of 6-4, 3-6, 6-7, 7-6, and an incredible 70-68 in the fifth set.

The Longest Rally

The longest rally in professional tennis occurred during the 1984 French Open. Players Vicky Nelson and Jean Hepner exchanged 643 shots over a single point, a rally that lasted an astonishing 29 minutes and 43 seconds.

Equipment Evolution

First Tennis Balls

Early tennis balls were made entirely of wool, making them heavy and less bouncy compared to modern balls. Rubber tennis balls were introduced in the 1870s, revolutionizing the sport.

Yellow Balls for Visibility

The yellow tennis ball was introduced in 1972 to improve visibility for players and spectators. Before this, white balls were the norm, and while rare, they are still used in some tournaments like Wimbledon.

Historic Milestones

Tennis in the Olympics

Tennis was part of the first modern Olympics in 1896, where only men competed. The United States’ John Boland won the gold medal. After being removed in 1924, tennis was reintroduced to the Olympics in 1988.

Wimbledon’s Dress Code

Wimbledon is famous not just for being the oldest tennis tournament but also for its strict dress code. Players must wear all-white outfits, with colored trims restricted to less than 1cm wide. This rule applies to all clothing, including undergarments and shoes.

Incredible Records

The Fastest Serve

Sam Groth from Australia set the record for the fastest tennis serve in 2012, clocking in at an incredible 163.7 mph during a Challenger tournament in South Korea. This feat remains a highlight in tennis history.

Williams Sisters in Action

Venus and Serena Williams, among the greatest players of all time, have faced each other in singles matches but have always teamed up in doubles tournaments. Their partnership in doubles has been a remarkable aspect of their careers.

The Ever-Evolving Sport

Tennis has grown from its humble beginnings into a global phenomenon with a rich history. Its evolution, from barehanded play to modern equipment and legendary matches, showcases the sport’s dynamic nature. Whether as a player or a fan, tennis offers something to captivate everyone.