Grand Slam Singles Winners and Racquets, 1980-1991

[retrowagen]

Hello all,

In a recent thread, our friend, "BorgCash" asked for a complete list of Grand Slam tournament winners and their racquets from 1980 through 1985, a particularly transitional period in our favourite sport. Today, I had a little spare time on my hands, so I compiled that list, for our reference, and proceeded further, through 1991, covering both the winning ladies and gentlemen. I've also tried to identify the composition of the frames in question, and the head sizes, as they were considered at the time (our "modern" idea of a midsize is far larger than it was in the 80's!).

It also bears mentioning that I have listed the tournaments in chronological order by year, and prior to calendar year 1986, the Australian Open took place in December, but commencing in 1987, moved to January. Thus, there was no Australian Open in 1986 - an interesting footnote in Grand Slam history.

Here's my list. Hope you all enjoy!

1980:
1980 French: Bjorn Borg, Donnay Borg Pro (standard wood); Chris Evert, Wilson Chris Evert Autograph (standard wood)
1980 Wimbledon: Bjorn Borg, Donnay Borg Pro (standard wood); Evonne Goolagong, Dunlop Volley (standard aluminium)
1980 US Open: John McEnroe, Wilson Jack Kramer Pro Staff (standard wood); Chris Evert, Chris Evert Autograph (standard wood)
1980 Australian: Brian Teacher, Pro Kennex Black Ace (midsize graphite composite); Hana Mandlikova, Wilson Jack Kramer Autograph (standard wood)

1981:
1981 French: Bjorn Borg, Donnay Borg Pro (standard wood); Hana Mandlikova, Wilson Jack Kramer Autograph (standard wood)
1981 Wimbledon: John McEnroe, Dunlop Maxply Fort (standard wood); Chris Evert, Chris Evert Autograph (standard wood)
1981 US Open: John McEnroe, Dunlop Maxply Fort (standard wood); Tracy Austin, Spalding Tracy Austin Autograph (standard wood)
1981 Australian: Johan Kriek, Rossignol R40 “S” (standard aluminum/fiberglass sandwich); Martina Navratilova, Yonex Carbonex 1 (standard wood)

1982:
1982 French: Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-7 (midsize graphite composite)
1982 Wimbledon: Jimmy Connors, Wilson T-2000 (standard steel); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-7 (midsize graphite composite)
1982 US Open: Jimmy Connors, Wilson T-2000 (standard steel); Chris Evert, Chris Evert Autograph (standard wood)
1982 Australian: Johan Kriek, Rossignol Johan Kriek Carbon (standard aluminum/fiberglass sandwich); Chris Evert, Chris Evert Autograph (standard wood)

1983:
1983 French: Yannick Noah, Le Coq Sportif Concept 3 (oversized wood/graphite); Chris Evert, Chris Evert Autograph (standard wood)
1983 Wimbledon: John McEnroe, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-7 (midsize graphite composite)
1983 US Open: Jimmy Connors, Wilson T-2000 (standard steel); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-7 (midsize graphite composite)
1983 Australian: Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-7 (midsize graphite composite)

1984:
1984 French: Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite)
1984 Wimbledon: John McEnroe, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite)
1984 US Open: John McEnroe, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite)
1984 Australian: Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Chris Evert, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite)

1985:
1985 French: Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Chris Evert, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite)
1985 Wimbledon: Boris Becker, Puma G. Vilas (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite)
1985 US Open: Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro (midsize graphite composite); Hana Mandlikova, Wilson Ultra 2 Midsize (midsize graphite composite)
1985 Australian: Stefan Edberg, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite)

1986:
1986 French: Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro-T (midsize graphite composite); Chris Evert, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite)
1986 Wimbledon: Boris Becker, Puma Boris Becker Super (actually Boris Becker Winner with paintjob) (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite)
1986 US Open: Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro-T (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite)

1987:
1987 Australian: Stefan Edberg, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Hana Mandlikova, Wilson Ultra 2 Midsize (midsize graphite composite)
1987 French: Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro-T (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite)
1987 Wimbledon: Pat Cash, Prince Magnesium Pro Series 90 (midsize magnesium alloy); Martina Navratilova, Dunlop Max 200g (with paintjob) (midsize graphite composite)
1987 US Open: Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro-T (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Dunlop Max 200g (with paintjob) (midsize graphite composite)

1988:
1988 Australian: Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite)
1988 French: Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite)
1988 Wimbledon: Stefan Edberg, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite)
1988 US Open: Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite)

1989:
1989 Australian: Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro-T (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite)
1989 French: Michael Chang, Prince graphite Series 110 (oversize graphite composite); Arantxa Sanchez-Vicario, Slazenger Silhouette 95 (midsize graphite composite)
1989 Wimbledon: Boris Becker, Puma Boris Becker Super (actually Boris Becker Winner with paintjob) (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite)
1989 US Open: Boris Becker, Puma Boris Becker Super (actually Boris Becker Winner with paintjob) (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite)

1990:
1990 Australian: Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro-T (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite)
1990 French: Andres Gomez, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite); Monica Seles, Prince Graphite Series 110 (oversize graphite composite)
1990 Wimbledon: Stefan Edberg, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex RQ-180 (midsize graphite composite)
1990 US Open: Pete Sampras, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Gabriella Sabatini, Prince Graphite Series 110 (oversize graphite composite)

1991:
1991 Australian: Boris Becker, Estusa ProVantech PB (midsize graphite composite); Monica Seles, Yonex RQ-380 (midsize graphite composite)
1991 French: Jim Courier, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Monica Seles, Yonex RQ-380 (midsize graphite composite)
1991 Wimbledon: Michael Stich, Fischer Vacuum Pro Mid (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g Pro (midsize graphite composite)
1991 US Open: Stefan Edberg, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Monica Seles, Yonex RQ-380 (midsize graphite composite

 

[BorgCash]

Wow! What a great research job from our racquet maestro retrowagen! I will put 100 likes if it will be possible. It's my favourite period in tennis (i think the most interesting in players, styles, technique and equipment). Looks like a St.Valenines gift for me!

 

[BorgCash]

I know i can not ask for more, but what about the list of finalists and their racquets also? It will bring so many pleasant memories. Also it will remind about such great players never won a GS title like Kevin Curren and Miloslav Mecir, Mikael Pernfors and other and their wonderful racqets.
Thank you in advance and thank you again for this great job done.

 

[BorgCash]

Actually one of the most interesting post ever on this forum for me.

 

[retrowagen]

And here is the information, with the losers as well, from 1980-1986

1980:

1980 French: Bjorn Borg, Donnay Borg Pro (standard wood); Chris Evert, Wilson Chris Evert Autograph (standard wood) [losers Vitas Gerulaitis, Wilson Jack Kramer Autograph (standard wood); Virginia Ruzici, Slazenger Challenge No. 1 (standard wood)]

1980 Wimbledon: Bjorn Borg, Donnay Borg Pro (standard wood); Evonne Goolagong, Dunlop Volley (standard aluminium) [losers John McEnroe, Wilson Jack Kramer Pro Staff (standard wood); Chris Evert, Wilson Chris Evert Autograph (standard wood)]

1980 US Open: John McEnroe, Wilson Jack Kramer Pro Staff (standard wood); Chris Evert, Chris Evert Autograph (standard wood) [losers Bjorn Borg, Donnay Borg Pro (standard wood); Hana Mandlikova, Wilson Jack Kramer Autograph (standard wood)]

1980 Australian: Brian Teacher, Pro Kennex Black Ace (midsize graphite composite); Hana Mandlikova, Wilson Jack Kramer Autograph (standard wood) [losers Kim Warwick, Dunlop Volley (standard aluminum alloy); Wendy Turnbull, Yonex 9200 Glaflex (standard graphite composite)]


1981:

1981 French: Bjorn Borg, Donnay Borg Pro (standard wood); Hana Mandlikova, Wilson Jack Kramer Autograph (standard wood) [losers Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro (midsize graphite composite); Sylvia Hanika, Voelkl Servo (standard graphite composite)]

1981 Wimbledon: John McEnroe, Dunlop Maxply Fort (standard wood); Chris Evert, Chris Evert Autograph (standard wood) [losers Bjorn Borg, Donnay Borg Pro (standard wood); Hana Mandlikova, Wilson Jack Kramer Autograph (standard wood)]

1981 US Open: John McEnroe, Dunlop Maxply Fort (standard wood); Tracy Austin, Spalding Tracy Austin Autograph (standard wood) [losers Bjorn Borg, Donnay Borg Pro (standard wood); Martina Navratilova, Yonex Carbonex 1 (standard wood)]

1981 Australian: Johan Kriek, Rossignol R40 “S” (standard aluminum/fiberglass sandwich); Martina Navratilova, Yonex Carbonex 1 (standard wood) [losers Steve Denton, Spalding GC-20 (midsize graphite composite); Chris Evert, Wilson Chris Evert Autograph (standard wood)]


1982:

1982 French: Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-7 (midsize graphite composite) [losers Guillermo Vilas, Slazenger V-24 (midsize wood/graphite composite), Andrea Jaeger, Wilson Ultra (standard graphite composite)]

1982 Wimbledon: Jimmy Connors, Wilson T-2000 (standard steel); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-7 (midsize graphite composite) [losers John McEnroe, Dunlop Maxply McEnroe (standard wood); Chris Evert, Wilson Chris Evert Autograph (standard wood)]

1982 US Open: Jimmy Connors, Wilson T-2000 (standard steel); Chris Evert, Chris Evert Autograph (standard wood) [losers Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro (midsize graphite composite); Hana Mandlikova, Wilson Jack Kramer Autograph (standard wood)]

1982 Australian: Johan Kriek, Rossignol Johan Kriek Carbon (standard aluminum/fiberglass sandwich); Chris Evert, Chris Evert Autograph (standard wood) [losers Steve Denton, Pro Kennex Black Ace (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-7 (midsize graphite composite)]


1983:

1983 French: Yannick Noah, Le Coq Sportif Concept 3 (oversized wood/graphite); Chris Evert, Chris Evert Autograph (standard wood) [losers Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Mima Jausovec, Wilson Ultra 2 Midsize (midsize graphite composite)]

1983 Wimbledon: John McEnroe, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-7 (midsize graphite composite) [losers Chris Lewis, Prince Composite (110) (oversize graphite composite); Andrea Jaeger, Wilson Ultra 2 Midsize (midsize graphite composite)]

1983 US Open: Jimmy Connors, Wilson T-2000 (standard steel); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-7 (midsize graphite composite) [losers Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro (midsize graphite composite); Chris Evert, Wilson Chris Evert Autograph (standard wood)]

1983 Australian: Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-7 (midsize graphite composite) [losers Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro (midsize graphite composite); Kathy Jordan, Wilson Ultra 2 Midsize (midsize graphite composite)]


1984:

1984 French: Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite) [losers John McEnroe, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite); Chris Evert, Chris Evert, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite)]

1984 Wimbledon: John McEnroe, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite) [losers Jimmy Connors, Wilson T-2000 (standard steel); Chris Evert, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite)]

1984 US Open: John McEnroe, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite) [losers Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro (midsize graphite composite); Chris Evert, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite)]

1984 Australian: Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Chris Evert, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite) [losers Kevin Curren, Wilson Jack Kramer Pro Staff (standard wood); Helena Sukova, Kneissl White Star Pro Masters (midsize graphite composite)]


1985:

1985 French: Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Chris Evert, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite) [losers Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite)]

1985 Wimbledon: Boris Becker, Puma G. Vilas (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite) [losers Kevin Curren, Kneissl White Star Pro Masters (midsize graphite composite); Chris Evert, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite)]

1985 US Open: Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro (midsize graphite composite); Hana Mandlikova, Wilson Ultra 2 Midsize (midsize graphite composite) [losers John McEnroe, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite)]

1985 Australian: Stefan Edberg, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite) [losers Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Chris Evert, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite)]


1986:

1986 French: Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro-T (midsize graphite composite); Chris Evert, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite) [losers Mikael Pernfors, Wimbledon Graphite (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite)]

1986 Wimbledon: Boris Becker, Puma Boris Becker Super (actually Boris Becker Winner with paintjob) (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite) [losers Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro-T (midsize graphite composite); Hana Mandlikova, Wilson Ultra 2 Midsize (midsize graphite composite)]

1986 US Open: Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro-T (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite) [losers Miloslav Mecir, Snauwaert Brian Gottfried Mid (midsize wood/graphite composite); Helena Sukova, Kneissl White Star Pro Masters (midsize graphite composite)]

 

[retrowagen]

And 1987-1991

1987:

1987 Australian: Stefan Edberg, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Hana Mandlikova, Wilson Ultra 2 Midsize (midsize graphite composite) [losers Pat Cash, Prince Magnesium Pro Series 90 (midsize magnesium alloy); Martina Navratilova, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite)]

1987 French: Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro-T (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite) [losers Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Dunlop Max 200g (with paintjob) (midsize graphite composite)]

1987 Wimbledon: Pat Cash, Prince Magnesium Pro Series 90 (midsize magnesium alloy); Martina Navratilova, Dunlop Max 200g (with paintjob) (midsize graphite composite) [losers : Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro-T (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite)]

1987 US Open: Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro-T (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Dunlop Max 200g (with paintjob) (midsize graphite composite) [losers Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite)]


1988:

1988 Australian: Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite) [losers Pat Cash, Prince Magnesium Pro Series 90 (midsize magnesium alloy); Chris Evert, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite)]

1988 French: Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite) [losers Henri Leconte, Head Prestige Pro (midsize graphite composite); Natalia Zvereva, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite)]

1988 Wimbledon: Stefan Edberg, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite) [losers Boris Becker, Puma Boris Becker Super (actually Boris Becker Winner with paintjob) (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Dunlop Max 200g (with paintjob) (midsize graphite composite)]

1988 US Open: Mats Wilander, Rossignol F200 Carbon (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite) [losers Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro-T (midsize graphite composite); Gabriella Sabatini, Prince Graphite Series 110 (oversize graphite composite)]


1989:

1989 Australian: Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro-T (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite) [losers Miloslav Mecir, Snauwaert Mecir (midsize wood/graphite composite); Helena Sukova, Puma X-Tra Power Lite (midsize graphite composite)]

1989 French: Michael Chang, Prince Graphite Series 110 (oversize graphite composite); Arantxa Sanchez-Vicario, Slazenger Silhouette 95 (midsize graphite composite) [losers Stefan Edberg, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite)]

1989 Wimbledon: Boris Becker, Puma Boris Becker Super (actually Boris Becker Winner with paintjob) (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite) [losers Stefan Edberg, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex RQ-180 (midsize graphite composite)]

1989 US Open: Boris Becker, Puma Boris Becker Super (actually Boris Becker Winner with paintjob) (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite) [losers Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro-T (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex RQ-180 (midsize graphite composite)]


1990:

1990 Australian: Ivan Lendl, Adidas Lendl GTX Pro-T (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite) [losers Stefan Edberg, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Mary Joe Fernandez, Mizuno Pro MV (midplus graphite composite)]

1990 French: Andres Gomez, Yonex R-22 (midsize graphite composite); Monica Seles, Prince Graphite Series 110 (oversize graphite composite) [losers Andre Agassi, Donnay Pro One (oversize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g (midsize graphite composite)]

1990 Wimbledon: Stefan Edberg, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex RQ-180 (midsize graphite composite) [losers Boris Becker, Estusa ProVantech PB (midsize graphite composite); Zina Garrison, Wilson Ultra Kevlar 95 (midsize graphite composite)]

1990 US Open: Pete Sampras, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Gabriella Sabatini, Prince Graphite Series 110 (oversize graphite composite) [losers Andre Agassi, Donnay Pro One (oversize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g Pro (midsize graphite composite)]


1991:

1991 Australian: Boris Becker, Estusa ProVantech PB (midsize graphite composite); Monica Seles, Yonex RQ-380 (midsize graphite composite) [losers Ivan Lendl, Mizuno Ivan Lendl (midsize graphite composite); Jana Novotna, Volkl T9 30 (midsize graphite composite)]

1991 French: Jim Courier, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Monica Seles, Yonex RQ-380 (midsize graphite composite) [losers Andre Agassi, Donnay Pro One (oversize graphite composite); Aranxta Sanchez-Vicario, Slazenger Silhouette 95 (midsize graphite composite)]

1991 Wimbledon: Michael Stich, Fischer Vacuum Pro Mid (midsize graphite composite); Steffi Graf, Dunlop Max 200g Pro (midsize graphite composite) [losers Boris Becker, Estusa ProVantech PB (midsize graphite composite) ; Gabriella Sabatini, Prince Graphite Series 110 (oversize graphite composite)]

1991 US Open: Stefan Edberg, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Monica Seles, Yonex RQ-380 (midsize graphite composite) [losers Jim Courier, Wilson Pro Staff Midsize (midsize graphite composite); Martina Navratilova, Yonex RQ-180 (midsize graphite composite)]

 

[onehandbh]

Anyone have the list for earlier years?
1970 - 1979
1960 - 1969

 

[BorgCash]

Thank you a lot retrowagen, you really make my day!

 

[BorgCash]

Anyone have the list for earlier years?
1970 - 1979
1960 - 1969

Yeah, that will be interesting too. Especially 70-79. Mostly wood with some metall. Also i would like to know about pj during 70's. I know about Laver and Nastase.

 

[onehandbh]

I never knew Navratilova played with a Mac 200G

 

[BlackAces]

Great lists with detailed information! That reminds me of some excellent players such as Steve Denton and Kevin Curren.They both reached the finals twice but never won a Grand Slam single title.

 

[BorgCash]

Great lists with detailed information! That reminds me of some excellent players such as Steve Denton and Kevin Curren.They both reached the finals twice but never won a Grand Slam single title.

Curren with two different racquets. Wilson Jack Kramer Pro Staff and Kneissl White Star Pro Masters.

 

[BorgCash]

I never knew Navratilova played with a Mac 200G

She did. With Yonex logo.

http://www.sporting-heroes.net/tenn.../1987-four-grand-slam-finals-two-wins_a05493/

https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/...a-navratilova-pictured-in-picture-id659201603

 

[BorgCash]

What about the finalists of 1980-1981?

 

[retrowagen]

What about the finalists of 1980-1981?

I am sorry about that. I researched and made my lists yesterday; I had taken the day off from work because I had taken ill with the flu. Later in the day, I was too tired to finish the list of the finalists, and I fell asleep!

When doing the research, I looked up the match results, and then tried to find photos or video of the players at the match, to verify the racquet used. Some are much easier than others. It will probably be more difficult—even with the resources on the Internet—to find and verify information about the winners and finalists of the years before 1980. Would be great if someone (not me, this time!) wanted to give it a try. Even in small pieces.

Retrowagen David

 

[BorgCash]

I am sorry about that. I researched and made my lists yesterday; I had taken the day off from work because I had taken ill with the flu. Later in the day, I was too tired to finish the list of the finalists, and I fell asleep!

When doing the research, I looked up the match results, and then tried to find photos or video of the players at the match, to verify the racquet used. Some are much easier than others. It will probably be more difficult—even with the resources on the Internet—to find and verify information about the winners and finalists of the years before 1980. Would be great if someone (not me, this time!) wanted to give it a try. Even in small pieces.

Retrowagen David

Ok, thank you very much. You did a great work. According to finalists in 1980-1981 almost everything is clear (i mean on the men's side). Gerulaitis played vs Borg in RG '80 with Wilson Jack Kramer Pro Staff i think. I just could not find info about Kim Warwick's racquet, AO '81.

 

[coachrick]

That's some great marketing to switch the AO to first Slam of the year. That brought about a sea change in the interest in that tournament by anyone not already IN Australia

 

[vsbabolat]

Ok, thank you very much. You did a great work. According to finalists in 1980-1981 almost everything is clear (i mean on the men's side). Gerulaitis played vs Borg in RG '80 with Wilson Jack Kramer Pro Staff i think. I just could not find info about Kim Warwick's racquet, AO '81.

Vitas used the Stan Smith Autograph and then switched to the Jack Kramer Autograph

 

[retrowagen]

Edited in the finalists from 1980 and 1981. Only Steve Denton's racquet at the Australian Open in 1981 is unknown to me. Anyone?

 

[Ultra 2]

Looks to be some sort of perfectly round open throat glass (maybe even carbon) frame. Slightly before my time so not too sure. Some sort of early Head? Has a VS stencil but the frame is not familiar to me.

Thanks for all the info above!!

 

[BlackAces]

Edited in the finalists from 1980 and 1981. Only Steve Denton's racquet at the Australian Open in 1981 is unknown to me. Anyone?

I think Steve Denton used a Spalding GC-20 at AO '81. Then he switched to Pro Kennex Black Ace in 1982.
Reference: https://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/index.php?threads/spalding-gc-20.387951/#post-7205545
The logo of "Spalding" on Denton's racquet in this video:

 

[BorgCash]

Vitas used the Stan Smith Autograph and then switched to the Jack Kramer Autograph

Yes. During RG '80 he played with JK.

 

[BorgCash]

Vitas used the Stan Smith Autograph and then switched to the Jack Kramer Autograph

And later moved to Snauwaert?

 

[BorgCash]

Edited in the finalists from 1980 and 1981. Only Steve Denton's racquet at the Australian Open in 1981 is unknown to me. Anyone?

Great, thanks.

 

[BorgCash]

I think Steve Denton used a Spalding GC-20 at AO '81. Then he switched to Pro Kennex Black Ace in 1982.
Reference: https://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/index.php?threads/spalding-gc-20.387951/#post-7205545
The logo of "Spalding" on Denton's racquet in this video:

Denton's racquet head looks bigger than Kriek's Rossi.

 

[vsbabolat]

And later moved to Snauwaert?

Yes

 

[retrowagen]

It was my best guess - but without better photographic evidence to put the racquet in the hand on the day - that Denton’s mystery frame was indeed the Spalding GC-20. The shape and string pattern look just right. ;-)

 

[BorgCash]

It was my best guess - but without better photographic evidence to put the racquet in the hand on the day - that Denton’s mystery frame was indeed the Spalding GC-20. The shape and string pattern look just right. ;-)

Was it a good frame? Never had any Spalding racquet.

 

[retrowagen]

Was it a good frame? Never had any Spalding racquet.

I played with it a little bit around 1983; I didn’t like it much. It was a direct competitor to the Head Graphite Edge, which I thought was better in every way.

Many of the better Spalding wood and wood composite racquets of the 1970’s were made in Belgium, by Snauwaert. The early 80’s graphites, in Taiwan by Kunnan.

I think if the Spalding frames had been good racquets, the list in my first post might have been full of them...?

 

[Ultra 2]

I actually had the GC20 for a spell. Recall it being very flexible almost as the Rossi F200. Didn’t really care for it.

 

[onehandbh]

Anyone remember the fiberglass PDP (sp?) racquet that was shaped like a wood racquet? When did it come out? I tried hitting with one and it sure has a lot of power compared to a wood racquet. Almost seems like an unfair advantage if they were in the same era.

 

[jorjipy]

1980 Wimbledon: Bjorn Borg, Donnay Borg Pro (standard wood); Evonne Goolagong, Dunlop Volley (standard aluminium) [losers John McEnroe, Wilson Jack Kramer Pro Staff (standard wood); Martina Navratilova, Yonex Carbonex 1 (standard wood)]


I am sorry but this is plainly wrong: Evert was the runner up at Wimbledon in 1980......

 

[BorgCash]

I played with it a little bit around 1983; I didn’t like it much. It was a direct competitor to the Head Graphite Edge, which I thought was better in every way.

Many of the better Spalding wood and wood composite racquets of the 1970’s were made in Belgium, by Snauwaert. The early 80’s graphites, in Taiwan by Kunnan.

I think if the Spalding frames had been good racquets, the list in my first post might have been full of them...?

Ok, thank you for info.

 

[BorgCash]

1980 Wimbledon: Bjorn Borg, Donnay Borg Pro (standard wood); Evonne Goolagong, Dunlop Volley (standard aluminium) [losers John McEnroe, Wilson Jack Kramer Pro Staff (standard wood); Martina Navratilova, Yonex Carbonex 1 (standard wood)]


I am sorry but this is plainly wrong: Evert was the runner up at Wimbledon in 1980......

Correct.

 

[BlackAces]

I think Steve Denton used a Spalding GC-20 at AO '81. Then he switched to Pro Kennex Black Ace in 1982.
Reference: https://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/index.php?threads/spalding-gc-20.387951/#post-7205545
The logo of "Spalding" on Denton's racquet in this video:

Denton's racquet was also mentioned in this thread: https://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/index.php?threads/spalding-gc-20.108461/

 

[retrowagen]

1980 Wimbledon: Bjorn Borg, Donnay Borg Pro (standard wood); Evonne Goolagong, Dunlop Volley (standard aluminium) [losers John McEnroe, Wilson Jack Kramer Pro Staff (standard wood); Martina Navratilova, Yonex Carbonex 1 (standard wood)]


I am sorry but this is plainly wrong: Evert was the runner up at Wimbledon in 1980......

Evert's agent speaks! (haha, just kidding) Corrected the list above...

 

[coachrick]

Anyone remember the fiberglass PDP (sp?) racquet that was shaped like a wood racquet? When did it come out? I tried hitting with one and it sure has a lot of power compared to a wood racquet. Almost seems like an unfair advantage if they were in the same era.

Middle-ish-'70s on the PDP FiberStaff(the Creamsicle)...played like a new wood; but got a little fluttery toward the top(a la Maxply). Quite a few broke during stringing...apparently, they didn't "breathe" all that well(torque was not a friend). The FiberGraff was a beefier model(black; but I think I remember a dark green??)...too beefy for most. Grommets were a little fragile in the 'Staff...lots of tubing used during re-strings. I had mine strung with PDP 'green' gut...I messed up the foam handle when trying to cut it down(DON'T use a grinding wheel !!!!)...gave it to my brother who could generate the same power with his Slaz Professional(wood).

 

[coachrick]

I played with it a little bit around 1983; I didn’t like it much. It was a direct competitor to the Head Graphite Edge, which I thought was better in every way.

Many of the better Spalding wood and wood composite racquets of the 1970’s were made in Belgium, by Snauwaert. The early 80’s graphites, in Taiwan by Kunnan.

I think if the Spalding frames had been good racquets, the list in my first post might have been full of them...?

I bought a GC when at PTR-USA testing on Hilton Head Is. At that time(1981-82), Van der Meer was with Spalding and I figured it couldn't hurt to play with the "home" brew. It was OK, kind of wimpy along the lines of a Black Max...skinny tubes and shaft. I didn't play all that great for my test; but I was able to hop an American Twist serve into the ad court...OVER the side fence(the tester just shook his head at this hotdog !!)

 

[coachrick]

Denton's racquet head looks bigger than Kriek's Rossi.

Looking back, that R-40 had a teensy tiny face!!!

 

[BorgCash]

Looking back, that R-40 had a teensy tiny face!!!

Absolutely, looks like a 65 sq in standart wood.

 

[rodracquet]

Without any research whatsoever, I am going to say that Martina must have used more and different style models over her career than any other player....THOUGHTS???? The list would be long.

 

[ronaktennis2020]

Todays slams would be so easy it's just big 4 spam and they never really changed their rackets that much

 

[recsoares]

Hi,friends!

I’ve reading all your thoughts and photos from the best “oldies” frames ever,in my opinion!
Prince has been absolutely essential on 80/90 developing tennis racquets technology.

So,I’ll start with some photos of my recent business, the famous Graphite Pro 90.

It’s a little heavy for my standards but I’m very very curious to feel the touch of such low flex frame!

I got this on local advertising site for ...40€ only!

As you can see,is almost mint condition.
I don’t believe that this can be my racquet of choice to a tournament or even to practice 3/4 days a week.
But,surely to hit some balls on warm up or even on Sunday pratices!

Specs:
-351 strung,dampener and overgrip
-10pts headlight
-Flex:???49???
-String:I guess it’s a SG,but can’t really see wich brand...probably is already “dead” and if so,I will restring with Solinco TB 1.15(tension??)

Did any ATP ou WTA player use this frame on the 80s???

Enviado do meu iPhone usando o Tapatalk

 

[vsbabolat]

Hi,friends!

I’ve reading all your thoughts and photos from the best “oldies” frames ever,in my opinion!
Prince has been absolutely essential on 80/90 developing tennis racquets technology.

So,I’ll start with some photos of my recent business, the famous Graphite Pro 90.

It’s a little heavy for my standards but I’m very very curious to feel the touch of such low flex frame!

I got this on local advertising site for ...40€ only!

As you can see,is almost mint condition.
I don’t believe that this can be my racquet of choice to a tournament or even to practice 3/4 days a week.
But,surely to hit some balls on warm up or even on Sunday pratices!

Specs:
-351 strung,dampener and overgrip
-10pts headlight
-Flex:???49???
-String:I guess it’s a SG,but can’t really see wich brand...probably is already “dead” and if so,I will restring with Solinco TB 1.15(tension??)

Did any ATP ou WTA player use this frame on the 80s???

Enviado do meu iPhone usando o Tapatalk

Darren Cahill

 

[galain]

Darren Cahill

Interesting. I always remembered Killer as a Pro Kennex player.

Can anyone tell me why Puma decided to have Becker endorse the BB Super, if the Winner was his main Puma frame? It's not like he had a history with his own signature line - why not have him endorse the stick he was playing with? Would it have made much difference to their bottom line`?

 

[vsbabolat]

Interesting. I always remembered Killer as a Pro Kennex player.

Can anyone tell me why Puma decided to have Becker endorse the BB Super, if the Winner was his main Puma frame? It's not like he had a history with his own signature line - why not have him endorse the stick he was playing with? Would it have made much difference to their bottom line`?

 

[retrowagen]

Interesting. I always remembered Killer as a Pro Kennex player.

Can anyone tell me why Puma decided to have Becker endorse the BB Super, if the Winner was his main Puma frame? It's not like he had a history with his own signature line - why not have him endorse the stick he was playing with? Would it have made much difference to their bottom line`?

Becker’s name was across pretty much the whole model line of Puma frames for 1986. I personally reckon that the suits wanted it to look as though he was using the Super (as opposed to the downmarket Winner) as it translated to Deutschmarks in the pocket - from a more expensive retail frame.

These were unbelievably popular in Germany at the time. Just crazy!

 

[ModusOperandi]

These were unbelievably popular in Germany at the time. Just crazy!

At the time, in my club there were basically two kinds of rackets in circulation: either some oversized Prince or anything with the name »Becker«.

 

[ServenVolley]

Hi,friends!

I’ve reading all your thoughts and photos from the best “oldies” frames ever,in my opinion!
Prince has been absolutely essential on 80/90 developing tennis racquets technology.

So,I’ll start with some photos of my recent business, the famous Graphite Pro 90.

It’s a little heavy for my standards but I’m very very curious to feel the touch of such low flex frame!

I got this on local advertising site for ...40€ only!

As you can see,is almost mint condition.
I don’t believe that this can be my racquet of choice to a tournament or even to practice 3/4 days a week.
But,surely to hit some balls on warm up or even on Sunday pratices!

Specs:
-351 strung,dampener and overgrip
-10pts headlight
-Flex:???49???
-String:I guess it’s a SG,but can’t really see wich brand...probably is already “dead” and if so,I will restring with Solinco TB 1.15(tension??)

Did any ATP ou WTA player use this frame on the 80s???

Enviado do meu iPhone usando o Tapatalk

Thierry Tulasne 1987