Born:

June 26, 1905

Died:

February 25, 1974

Place of Birth:

Birmingham, England

Citizenship:

England

Induction Category:

Contributor

Year of Induction:

1998

A pioneer of “Open Tennis,” David was a determined advocate of that concept during his long tenure as chairman of the All England club. He made a bold move and broke with the club’s tradition by holding a professional tournament in August of 1967 on the fabled grass courts. That was a crucial step on the way to the start of the Open Era in 1968. The French Open was the first of the Grand Slam events to allow amateur ands and professionals to compete together, and Wimbledon was next, thanks largely to the concerned efforts of David.

Career Achievements

• Davis Cup Team Member 1932
• Davis Cup Team Captain 1953-58

Contributions

• All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club Chairman 1959-74
• Wimbledon Management Committee Chairman
• Brought "Open" tennis to Wimbledon