This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/24/2016
Presented here is an exquisite Wilson 'Match Play' Ellsworth Vines signature model tennis racquet, match-used circa 1932-34 by the legendary Hall of Famer. Born in Los Angeles, Ellsworth Vines attended the University of Southern California and became the leading tennis player of the 1930's when he had four different reigns ranked World No. 1: 1932, 1935, 1936, and 1937. As an amateur, Vines won the U.S. Championship in 1931 and '32 as well as Wimbledon in 1932. A remarkably versatile player, he was able to win five Pro Slam Titles on three different surfaces. Vines was a tremendous all-around athlete, retiring from tennis at age 28 and later becoming a professional golfer who placed third at the 1951 PGA Championship. He died in 1994 at 82 years old.
The Ellsworth Vines signature model has his cursive name and portrait decal on both sides of the upper handle, with the Wilson logo and "Match Play" stamped on the lower end near the black grip. Vines has signed the lower handle in 8-9/10 black marker. The face has a Strata-Bow design, as indicated by the stamp at the top, using a curved outer rim. The wood racquet displays excellent use, yet it has been very well-preserved. The outer rim contains several green court marks, but there are no broken strings. It should be noted that SCP Auctions sold a Vines match-used racquet in 2014 for $11,844. This lot also includes a white Wimbledon visor that Vines has autographed and inscribed "1932 Winner" on the brim in 8/10 black marker. Incredible pairing from one of the finest tennis players in history.
Includes 1/3/1992 Letter of Authenticity from Ellsworth Vines. Letter of Provenance from the Newport Sports Museum. Autograph pre-certified by PSA/DNA.