Open Championship

In 1968, Wimbledon became an “open” championship, allowing both amateur and professional tennis players to compete in the same tournament. Until this point, only amateurs could compete in Grand Slam events. Australian legend Rod Laver (pictured) won his third Wimbledon title, his first as a professional, while Billie Jean King won the women’s title for the third year running.

In 1968, Wimbledon became an “open” championship, allowing both amateur and professional tennis players to compete in the same tournament. Until this point, only amateurs could compete in Grand Slam events. Australian legend Rod Laver (pictured) won his third Wimbledon title, his first as a professional, while Billie Jean King won the women’s title for the third year running.