When Did Tennis Balls Become Yellow?
The vibrant yellow tennis ball has become an iconic symbol of the sport, but its transition from a white ball wasn't always a smooth one. In the early days of tennis, balls were made from a variety of materials, including leather and wool, and were typically white or black in color.
By the mid-19th century, standardized tennis rules emerged, and with them came a preference for white balls. However, during the 1970s, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) conducted experiments to determine if a more visible ball would improve gameplay. Tests found that yellow balls were more easily spotted against both light and dark backgrounds, reducing eyestrain for players and spectators.
In 1972, the ITF officially mandated the use of yellow tennis balls in all international tournaments. This change was initially met with some resistance from purists who argued that the traditional white ball was more aesthetically pleasing. However, the benefits of the yellow ball soon became undeniable, and it has been universally adopted in professional tennis ever since.
Related Questions:
- Why are tennis balls yellow? To improve visibility for players and spectators.
- When were tennis balls first introduced? In the late 18th century.
- What materials were used to make early tennis balls? Leather, wool, and horsehair.
- What color were tennis balls before they were yellow? White or black.
- Who mandated the use of yellow tennis balls? The International Tennis Federation (ITF).
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