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Lawn Tennis
It is thought that many people such as Major T.H. of Britain and J.B. Perera of Spain were making tennis courts on lawns at this time. -
Spharistike?
Major Wingfield chooses the name “spharistike” for the tennis like game played inside by monks as a recreational activity in monestaries. This word means “game of the palm” in Greek. -
Tennis Introduced to U.S. by Mary Outerbridge
Mary Outerbridge learns tennis from a British officer in the Bermudas. At this time, she brings the game and equipment back to New York, the first time it is introduced to America. -
First U.S. Competitive Tournament
The first competitive U.S. tennis tournament is held in Nahant, Massachusetts and the winner is Dr. James White, the owner of the court. -
First England Championship
The first championship in England is held and only men’s singles are played in it. Spencer Gore wins the tournament and the Silver Challenger Cup and a Gold Championship Prize, which together worth about $22. -
Olympic Tennis Introduced
John Boland, Ireland, wins the first gold medal awarded in Olympic tennis in Athens, Greece. -
International Lawn Tennis Federation is Created
The International Lawn Tennis Federation is formed (now called ITF after the word lawn is removed) with a total of 13 member countries. -
Professional Tennis Players and Olympics
The Olympic Committee outlaws professional tennis players from playing Olympic tennis. -
Equal Prize Money
For the first time ever, women and men championships in the U.S. open earn equal prize money. -
Professionals in Olympics
The Olympic Committee now allows professional players to compete in Olympic Tennis.
