Tennis, with its mix of grace and grit is one of the most storied sports on earth. But when we talk about the history of women’s tennis at the Olympic Games, we’re delving into a story of trailblazers, champions, and global icons who have captured hearts across the world. 

In a wonderfully full circle moment with this summer's games - the journey of women’s tennis in the Olympics began at the 1900 Paris Games, where women competed for the first time in modern Olympic history. Among them was Charlotte Cooper (pictured below - love the tie!), who not only clinched the gold but also became the first female Olympic champion in any sport. Cooper’s victory was more than just a personal triumph; it was a momentous step forward for women in sports, showcasing that women could compete and succeed at the highest levels.

Fast forward to the 1920s, and the scene was set for another legend—Suzanne Lenglen. Known for her flamboyant style both on and off the court, Lenglen became one of the first female athletes to achieve international fame. Her performances at the 1920 Antwerp Games, where she won gold in singles and mixed doubles, left an indelible mark. Lenglen was not just a tennis player; she was a global icon, her name synonymous with elegance and excellence.

The Olympic journey took a brief hiatus after 1924, as tennis was dropped from the Games. However, the sport and its stars continued to shine elsewhere, with players like Billie Jean King and Martina Navratilova advocating for gender equality and professionalising women’s tennis. Their efforts off the court were just as significant as their victories on it, setting the stage for the sport's return to the Olympics in 1988.

The reintroduction of tennis at the Seoul Games was marked by another pioneering icon—Steffi Graf. Graf’s achievement of winning the “Golden Slam” (all four Grand Slams and Olympic gold in a single year) remains a singular feat in tennis history. Her dominance on the court was matched by her grace, making her a beloved figure worldwide.

As we moved into the 21st century, the Williams sisters, Venus and Serena, took centre stage. Their extraordinary athleticism and fierce competitiveness brought a new dimension to women’s tennis. The Williams sisters have not only won numerous Olympic medals, including gold in both singles and doubles, but have also used their platform to address issues of race, gender, and inequality in sports. Their influence extends far beyond the tennis court, embodying the spirit of modern-day athletic icons.

Today, the legacy of these incredible women continues with players like Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff captivating tennis lovers with their talent and verve - we cannot wait to see these powerhouses dominate on clay over the next two weeks!

But the history of women’s tennis at the Olympics is not just a chronicle of victories; it’s a celebration of how the sport (although not wholly perfect) has broken important ground for gender equity and provided a dazzling platform for female athletes to shine on a global stage. From Charlotte Cooper at the 1900 Paris Games to Serena Williams a century on, each of these women has moved the dial for female athletes on the global stage and inspired the next generation of players.

So here’s to the incredible women of Olympic tennis—past, present, and future. Game, set, GOLD!