Tennis is played by two or four players on a court of clay, grass or hard surface. It's a game with a rich history and players who have created iconic moments on the court. Available to a wide variety of ages, from juniors to super seniors, tennis has become one of the most-watched modern sports. While its origins are the subject of some debate, today's athletes continue to refine and evolve the sport.
Origins
Tennis origins are somewhat disputed. Some believe the game originated as a game played without rackets in ancient Greece, others point to monks in the 11th century. The contemporary game likely came from France in the 17th century, though most historians attribute court tennis to Major Walter Clopton Wingfield, an Englishman seeking to entertain his guests at his country estate in 1873.
Growth
Court tennis was popularized by Henry VIII, king of England in the early 1500s. He had a court created at Hampton Court, the center of his rule. Charles II, in the 1600s, modernized the court to what is recognizable as a tennis court today. Women and men both began playing the sport, leading to the creation of international tournaments and competitions.
USTA Creation
The United States Tennis Association, the governing body of the tennis in the United States, was formed in 1881 in New York by a group of tennis members. Its goal was to set consistent rules and regulations for the sport. In addition, its members sought to make the sport popular in the U.S. The group was initially named the United States National Lawn Tennis Association, but the final, shortened name was adopted in 1975 to create the USTA.
Competitions
Court tennis includes several large-scale competitions. Wimbledon, played in England in June and July, is considered by many to be the most prestigious competition. Players are selected by world ranking and competition prior to the main event. The U.S. Open is played in New York in August. The Australian Open is played in Melbourne in January. The French Open is played in Paris in May and June. Winning all these events in one season is the Grand Slam.
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