To mark the fiftieth anniversary of Arthur Ashe and Billie Jean King’s historic victories at Wimbledon in 1975, the All England Lawn Tennis Club is delighted to announce The Tennis History Conference: ‘Trailblazers in Tennis’. This theme celebrates individuals, innovations, and movements that have reshaped the sport of tennis and left an enduring legacy.
We invite proposals for papers and sessions that explore the concept of trailblazing in tennis from a variety of perspectives. Possible topics include, but are not limited to:
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- Historic and contemporary players, pioneers and personalities who have changed the game.
- Advances and innovations in technology, equipment, playing surfaces, and training methods.
- Visionary figures shaping the next generation of players through coaching and mentorship.
- How coverage and storytelling in broadcasting and media have evolved to reflect and influence the sport.
- The impact of fashion on tennis style, culture and expression. – Social and cultural history relating to issues of race, gender, class, and accessibility in tennis.
- Club and local histories offering insights into the foundations of tennis worldwide.
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We welcome proposals for:
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- Individual Papers: Twenty-minute presentations followed by Q&A.
- Roundtable Discussions: Up to five speakers engaging in dialogue on a specific topic.
- Alternative Formats: Creative and interactive approaches to presenting your ideas, such as short research summary talks (under 10 minutes). Please specify format and duration in your submission.
- Other Speaking Roles: We also welcome submissions from expert speakers who would like to moderate discussions and/or sessions.
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The conference will take place at the All England Lawn Tennis Club, Wimbledon on Tuesday 9 December 2025.
Submission Guidelines
Please submit a proposal of no more than 300 words, along with a brief biography (maximum 150 words) for each presenter, to library@aeltc.com by Friday 4 April 2025. For panel and roundtable submissions, please include a 100-word summary of the session’s overarching theme. Join us as we celebrate the trailblazers who have shaped the rich history of tennis and its future. We look forward to your contributions.
Contact Information
Robert McNicol, rmcn@aeltc.com
