Miscellaneous - This Day That Age

dated June 17, 1952: The Wimbledon Championships

Wimbledon, the world's biggest annual international tennis event, would begin on June 23, in London. Wimbledon held an atmosphere that was all its own, born of a long tradition. Efficiency of organisation, a turf without equal, a galaxy of stars, wonderful, unpredictable play, the constant parade of fashion along the promenades, and a great sporting crowd ever ready to spur on the underdog without being too partisan — all would go to make Wimbledon one of the highlights of the sporting and social calendar.

Miss M. Connolly, 16-year-old blonde American player who shook the tennis world by winning the United States Singles title, nine months ago, would be the Wimbledon debutant this year. It was certain that she would be one of the biggest "draws" of post-war Wimbledon. Would she win at her first attempt?

She certainly had the stroke equipment and power to become the youngest winner of the women's title this century. She could hit the ball harder than any other woman and, more important, could control the speed. Sooner or later, she appeared certain to win Wimbledon and if she failed this year, it might well be through "Wimbledon nerves" which had brought about the downfall of many a more experienced campaigner than this likable young college girl.

As far as the men's event was concerned, nearly a dozen players had the ability to win if in peak form. If Australia's F. Sedgman could recapture the form which won him the United States title in 1951, and helped Australia to retain the Davis Cup, then his rivals would have little chance, but Wimbledon had proved a graveyard of reputations.

Indian Olympic Hockey team

Members of the Indian Olympic hockey team were given a reception at the Madras Press Club on June 15. Welcoming the guests, Mr. S. A. Govindarajan, Assistant Editor, The Hindu, referred to the excellent traditions built up by players like Dhyan Chand, Roop Singh, Jaffar and others whose names conveyed all the thrill and magic which were associated with hockey at its best.

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