Evolution of Tennis and the Racquet
Embark on a journey through the thousand-year history of tennis. In seven chapters, we delve into the evolution of the sport and its essential tools, focusing on key developments that have shaped the game. Each chapter offers insightful narratives that highlight the development of the player’s equipment.
Chapter I
From Hand to Racquet
1000 AD - 1500
Explore the early evolution of the tennis ball, beginning around 1000 AD, and the introduction of the racquet at the end of the Middle Ages. This chapter also covers the transition to white balls and the eventual adoption of the common yellow ball we know today.
Chapter II
From Royal to Lawn Tennis
1500 - 1874
Step into the world of Royal Tennis, a sport enjoyed by kings and nobility. Learn how early racquet designs evolved into the distinct shape of the Real Tennis racquet, reflecting the sport’s growth among the elite.
Chapter III
From Solid to Laminated Wood
1874 - 1930
Witness how racquets evolved from flat-top, square, or round wooden frames to the classic oval shapes we recognise today. This chapter also explores the development of string patterns and the increasing sophistication of racquet architecture.
Chapter IV
From Wood to Composite
1930 - 1982
Discover the iconic laminated wooden frames used by legends like Rod Laver, Chris Evert-Lloyd, and Bjorn Borg. This chapter focuses on the peak of the wooden racquet era before the introduction of composite materials.
Chapter V
The Revolution -
Injection Molding 1982
Learn about the shift in racquet production when Dunlop introduced injection moulding in 1982. The Max 200G, one of the first racquets made with this process, gained fame through the successes of Steffi Graf and John McEnroe.
Chapter VI
Iconic Inventions of the
20s century
Chapter VI covers the key innovations of the 20th century that transformed constructions, from oversized frames to unique string patterns. These inventions pushed the boundaries of the sport and reshaped how the game was played.
Chapter VII
Gear from the Greats
1982 - Today
Take a closer look at the tools used by tennis legends such as Roger Federer, Andre Agassi, and Steffi Graf. This chapter explores how the tool has evolved to meet the demands of the sport’s greatest players.