Tennis

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Tennis History

Most historians believe that tennis originated in northern France in the 12th century, but the ball was then struck with the palm of the hand hence the name jeu de paume ("game of the palm"). It was not until the 16th century that rackets came into use, and the game began to be called "tennis." It was popular in England and France, although the game was only played indoors where the ball could be hit off the wall. Today, tennis is typically played with a racquet and ball where they are meant to hit it inside the court lines and over the net.

Old style Tennis Racquet Tennis in Paris, France in 1622

Tennis Racquets
When the racquet was first invented around the 14th century it was more of a wooden paddle. It then evolved into a wooden version of the modern racquet, although quite a bit heavier, smaller head and produced much less power. In around the 1960's the steel framed racquet took to the stores, becoming a top seller with its increased racquet size and increased power. In the 1970's the aluminum framed racquet was introduced but advanced players needed a stiffer frame material, and the best material proved to be a mixture of carbon fibers and a plastic resin to bind them together. This new material acquired the name graphite.

Wooden Tennis Racquet Steel Tennis Racquet Graphite Tennis Racquet