Tennis is a globally popular spectator sport and is played by millions of people across the World. Here is a list of 10 interesting facts about the sport of tennis.
Origin of Name
The word “tennis” originated from an Anglo-Norman term “tenez” which means “to take heed.” Also, originated in France, it used to be played using the palms, and therefore it was called ‘jeu de paume’ or the game of the palm.
Wimbledon
The Wimbledon Championships is the oldest and the most prestigious Tennis Tournament in the World. The first Wimbledon was played in 1877 and it is first of the four Grand Slams to be founded.
Longest Tennis Match
The longest Tennis match took 11 hours and 5 minutes and lasted for three days to complete. This match was played between John Isner and Nicolas Mahut. Ultimately, John Isner triumphed with a score of 6–4, 3–6, 6–7, (7–9), 7–6(7–3), 70–68 (final set).
Fastest Serve
The fastest serve in men’s tennis was served by Australian Sam Groth at 263.44 km/h. Germany’s Sabine Lisicki hit a serve 210 km/h—the fastest ever recorded in women’s tennis.
Tennis Balls were originally white
Yellow tennis balls were introduced in 1972 by Mike Davies keeping in mind that they were more visible on television. They were first used in 1986 at Wimbledon.
A Tennis ball stays in play for 20 minutes in a standard match
In a standard tennis match of about 2.5 hours, the ball stays in action for about 20 minutes.
Shortest Tennis Match
The shortest tennis match lasted for 20 minutes. This match was played between Susan Tutt and Marion Bandy in 1969 at Wimbledon.
Oldest Tennis Court
The Royal Tennis Court located at Hampton Court Palace, London is the World’s oldest Tennis court and it is still in use.
Weight of Tennis Ball
The tennis ball must weigh from 56 to 59.4 grams while the length of the tennis racquet must be 29 inches.
Rufus- A Harris Hawk
Every year this hawk is stationed at the Wimbledon to keep its sky clear of local pigeons. This hawk has more than 10000 followers on Twitter.
Stay Rackonnected and learn more about sports
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram to join our community of sports lovers.