The Story Behind the Yellow Tennis Ball
Tennis balls, commonly known for their vibrant yellow color, have an interesting history. Originating in France during the 12th century, early tennis balls were made from various materials like cork, wool, and even human hair. Over time, innovations led to the creation of air-filled rubber balls, which were initially red or gray.
The transformation to yellow began in 1967 when Sir David Attenborough pushed for Wimbledon to be broadcast in color. The existing white balls were hard to see on screen, prompting the International Tennis Federation to develop a more visible optic yellow ball. This change was implemented, and thus, the iconic yellow tennis ball was born, enhancing visibility and making the sport more enjoyable to watch.
