The tennis we love today has a rich and surprising history. From medieval ball games to professional courts, this sport has evolved to become a global phenomenon.
From Medieval Roots with Jeu de Paume
The ancestor of tennis is Jeu de Paume, which appeared in France in the 12th century. First played with bare hands, then with gloves, and finally with rudimentary rackets, this sport was very popular, especially among royalty. The term "tennis" is believed to come from the server's cry "tenez!" (meaning "take it!"). The rules were different, but the principle of returning the ball over an obstacle was already present.
The Birth of Modern Tennis
In 1873, Major Walter Clopton Wingfield invented "Sphairistikè," laying the groundwork for "lawn tennis." Four years later, in 1877, the first Wimbledon tournament was organized. This tournament was crucial: it standardized the rules, net height, court dimensions, and the scoring system (15, 30, 40). Wimbledon quickly became the model to follow and the most prestigious tournament.
The Era of Expansion and Professionalism
The 20th century saw tennis become an international sport. The US Open, Roland-Garros, and the Australian Open joined Wimbledon to form the four Grand Slams. Icons like Suzanne Lenglen and Rod Laver dominated the courts, popularizing the sport. In 1968, the Open Era marked a revolution: amateurs and professionals could finally compete together in all tournaments. This professionalized the sport and increased its global media coverage.
Tennis in 2025: A Global Phenomenon
Today's tennis is a blend of tradition and innovation. Carbon rackets, new balls and surfaces, and technologies like Hawk-Eye have transformed the game. Legends such as Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, and Serena Williams have left their mark on the era. Tennis is now a planetary sport, with structured professional circuits (ATP, WTA), and it ranks as the 5th most followed sport in the world with approximately 1 billion fans globally.
Comments