LONDON — Tennis has evolved dramatically over the decades, but few changes have been as transformative as the advent of the Open era. But what exactly does "Open era" mean in tennis, and why is it so significant? BBC Sport's Ask Me Anything team breaks it down.
The Dawn of the Open Era
Before 1968, professional and amateur tennis players existed in separate worlds. Amateurs, who were unpaid, competed in prestigious tournaments like Wimbledon and the US Championships, while professionals played in separate, often less-publicized events. This divide meant that many of the sport's greatest talents were barred from competing in the most celebrated tournaments. "It was a system that stifled the growth of tennis," says historian Richard Evans.
The Open era began on April 22, 1968, when the International Lawn Tennis Federation (now the ITF) voted to allow professionals to compete alongside amateurs in major tournaments. This monumental shift democratized the sport, enabling the best players in the world—regardless of their professional status—to face off on the biggest stages. The first Open-era tournament was the 1968 British Hard Court Championships in Bournemouth, won by Ken Rosewall.
Why Did Tennis Go 'Open'?
The move to Open tennis was driven by several factors:
- Declining public interest in amateur-only tournaments
- Pressure from top players demanding fair compensation
- The rise of rival professional tours threatening the sport’s unity
Rod Laver, one of the sport’s all-time greats, famously turned professional in 1963 and was banned from Grand Slams until the Open era began. Reflecting on the change, Laver said, "It was a long time coming. Tennis needed to reward its best players properly, and the fans deserved to see the best compete."
Impact on the Sport
The Open era revolutionized tennis in multiple ways:
- Prize Money: Players could now earn significant incomes from tournaments.
- Globalization: The sport expanded beyond traditional strongholds like Europe and the U.S.
The Rise of Legends
The Open era allowed icons like Björn Borg, Martina Navratilova, and Roger Federer to flourish. Without the divide between amateurs and pros, rivalries became more intense, and the level of competition soared. "The Open era made tennis a true global spectacle," says former Wimbledon champion John McEnroe.
Modern Implications
Today, the Open era’s legacy is evident in the sport’s structure:
- Grand Slams now offer equal prize money to men and women.
- Players can earn millions through endorsements and tournament winnings.
- Tennis has become one of the world’s most-watched individual sports.
However, debates continue over issues like player pay at non-major events and the scheduling demands on athletes. As Billie Jean King, a pioneer of the Open era, notes, "The fight for fairness in tennis is never really over. The Open era was just the beginning."
Conclusion
The Open era marked a turning point in tennis history, breaking down barriers and elevating the sport to new heights. By allowing professionals to compete in major tournaments, it created a more competitive, entertaining, and financially viable landscape. As we look back, it’s clear that the Open era didn’t just change tennis—it saved it.
For fans today, the idea of excluding top players from Grand Slams seems unthinkable. That’s the Open era’s enduring legacy: a sport where the best always compete against the best. "Tennis wouldn’t be what it is without that decision in 1968," says current ATP chairman Andrea Gaudenzi.