The Victor's Crown: How the Birth of the Olympics and the Rise of the Roman Games Changed Sport for Ever

Abstract

introduction of the volley, and the vehement opposition to the initial implementation of the lob. Lake skilfully evaluates how these seemingly innocuous ‘new’ types of play sat within, whilst also helping to (re)produce, the broader contexts of: amateurism versus professionalism, the ‘place’ and ‘role’ of women within the sport, and the levels of etiquette considered synonymous with the social elite. The foremost strength here, aside from the broad scope and extensive research, was the critical, sociological edge to the writing. Shining through each chapter was the genuine desire to highlight social issues throughout the history of tennis, whilst evoking comparisons with contemporary manifestations and seeking to challenge the authorities, hoping for change. Indicative of this was the ongoing analysis of the persistent elitist ideology, which continues to shape participation and talent development in tennis, or, for a more specific example, the treatment and public perception of Althea Gibson during the 1950s (Chapter 15), which instantly called to mind the lamentably similar treatment and perception of Serena Williams more than 50 years later. The countless similar examples throughout the text represent the paradox found in so many of Britain’s popular sporting pastimes; the heritage and tradition intertwined with the outdated views and long-standing, discriminating practices. This highlights how the book is not just painting a picture, there is a serious rationale behind many of the arguments constructed; which is epitomized by the parting shot in the conclusion aimed towards the tennis authorities, not least the Lawn Tennis Association, regarding their policies, specifically concerning their lack of action relating to many pertinent social and cultural problems that endure within the sport. Whilst tennis has had ample attention in sports history literature, there has remained a conspicuous absence of such a sustained, comprehensive volume on tennis. There is now an essential account for anyone considering embarking on a study on tennis. Also, anyone giving serious consideration to issues of gender, class, or ethnicity in Britain’s social history will also benefit from this work, and find the vivid examples and fervent discussions within the tennis context valuable. These elements all helped to capture the imagination and retain the attention, which made for a genuinely gratifying read. There is no jargon or dwelling on unnecessary detail; so the book remains suitable for any reader and will engross the historian, the sociologist, and the tennis enthusiast equally.