HAPPY WEEKLY CURRENT WEDNESDAY! On This Day in History Wimbledon Served Up It's First Match!

That's right! On this day July 9, 1877, the All England Croquet and Lawn Tennis Club kicked off the very first lawn tennis tournament at Wimbledon! It was far cry from the large crowds we see today that includes A-list stars and even Royals, back then it was a modest game with just 22 amateur gentlemen showing up to compete.

Believe it or not, Wimbledon started as a croquet club. But tennis quickly took center stage, and croquet got the...roquet! The club created many of the rules we still use today — like the 15, 30, 40 scoring system and the size of the court.

Fast forward to today, and the tournament is a global spectacle. Both men and women compete, with up to 128 players in each singles draw. That’s a whole racket-load of talent battling it out for one of sports’ most coveted titles — and all still played on the iconic grass courts.

Wimbledon has changed a lot since 1877, but it’s still the same magical tournament that celebrates tradition, sportsmanship, and some truly amazing tennis. And yes, rain delays remain a classic part of the experience!

So next time you watch a Wimbledon match, remember that it all started with just 22 guys on a meadow outside London. From small beginnings come great things.

Fascinating and True 🎾

• Tennis originated from a 13th-century French game called jeu de paume, "game of the palm." It was played by hitting the ball with your hand! Yowch!

• Wimbledon is located in a suburb of London–40 minutes south. A train can get there in no time. Choo-choo!

• Wimbledon’s first tournament was held on July 9, 1877, Making this tennis game 148 years old and counting!

• This was a male dominant game up until 1884 when The first Ladies' Championships took place!

• William Renshaw became the "founding father of tennis." He won seven Wimbledon singles victories! His popularity drew in the crowds. The rest is history!

• Women were invited to play in 1884 in The first Ladies' Championships!

  
  

Fun Things to See and Do 🏆

• Catch the iconic Centre Court action during the championships.

• Explore the beautiful Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum to see historic trophies and memorabilia.

• Walk around Wimbledon Village for charming shops and cafes.

• If you visit in summer, try to snag tickets for the famous strawberries and cream—a Wimbledon tradition! YUM!