This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/18/2024
[TENNIS]. Official Lawn Tennis Bulletin. Boston: University Press for John Wilson & Son, 1895-96. 10 volumes, 8vo. Vol. II, Nos. 3, 5, 7, 9-10, 12, 14; Vol. III, Nos. 16, 19-20. Illustrated. Original wrappers (light wear to spines with few splits, one cover detached). Lawn tennis, or tennis as it is more commonly known today, is credited to have originated in England during the late 19th century. Major credit for the invention of lawn tennis is often given to Major Walter Clopton Wingfield. In 1873, Wingfield patented a game he called “Sphairistike,” which is Greek for “playing ball.” He published the rules and instructions for this game in a pamphlet titled Sphairistike or Lawn Tennis. Wingfield’s version of lawn tennis was played on an hourglass-shaped court, and the rules were somewhat different from contemporary tennis. However, it laid the groundwork for the development of modern lawn tennis.