If you are a fan of watching tennis, have smashed a few aces, or don’t know your deuce from your drop volley then you are in the right place. Whether you are an advanced pro or a complete beginner we have some incredible facts about tennis to share with you.
Yellow Balls
Yellow balls were introduced for the first time at Wimbledon in 1986. Before that only white balls were used. The yellow ball was used as it was easier to see on the grass and most importantly easier to distinguish compared to the white lines of the court.
Fast Serves
In 2012 Sam Groth hit the fastest serve in men’s tennis. His serve reached a speed of 263 Km/h. In women’s tennis, the record is held by Georgina Garcia Perez at 220 Km/h. Venus Williams lies in 5th place with 207.6 Km/h while Serena Williams lies in 6th place with a speed of 207.0 Km/h.
Shorts, please
Henry Austin, also known as ‘Bunny’ was the first player to wear shorts at Wimbledon in 1932. Prior to that, all players wore cricket flannel
Strawberries, thanks
Strawberries have become a big tradition at Wimbledon as it is seen as the perfect evening to watch tennis while eating some delicious strawberries. The trend has grown so popular that 24 tons of Kent strawberries are now required to satisfy the crowds of Wimbledon.
Sisters on top
Serena and Venus Williams became the first sisters to win Gold medals at the Olympics in tennis.
Breaking down barriers
Arthur Ashe won the inaugural US Open in 1968. Prior to 1968 only amateurs were allowed to enter. The central court at the US Open has since been named after him as the Arthur Ashe stadium. He also won the Australian Open in 1970 and Wimbledon in 1975. He was a leading African American sports hero at a time of racial tensions.
