Tennis is an extremely popular sport all over the world. It was first played in Europe by the social elite but now it is even an Olympic event. Tennis was first played in the Olympics, by men, in 1896. In 1928 it was taken out but was played as a demonstration event in 1968 and 1984. Tennis was returned to its full glory in the Olympics in 1988.
As a professional sport Tennis has grown in popularity and intensity in the last decade. Legends of the court have gained a following to rival any other sport.
Names like Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi are known the world over. Thousands of spectators turn out to watch these players in tournaments which are held all over the world. Some of the most well-known of these tournaments are Wimbledon, the French Open, the Australian Open, and the U.S. Open.
In the past few years many young players have stepped onto the court and shown just what they can do. One such player is Anna Kournikova. She is a very promising 16 year old. This is a picture of her at the '96 U.S. Open.
Tennis equipment is very specialized. Every player has his or her own preference when it comes to racquets and court shoes.
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All photos on this page courtesy of Tennis Online.