Suzanne Lenglen (1899-1938) was a French national hero and became royalty to a generation of admirers in both Europe and America. She dominated women's tennis from 1919 to 1926, winning both Wimbledon and French singles titles six times.

Through her parents' forceful persuasion, Langlen developed into one of the best female tennis players in the history of the game. She was a fragile woman, who lived for tennis and the good life. Lenglen expressed a joy for living that was infectious, but relied on her father's decisions when she was on the court. She had style and technique and a simplicity of form that made her tennis game seem effortless.

Early Athletic Ability

Suzanne Rachel Flore Lenglen was born in Compiegne, France, on May 24, 1899. Her family was said to be of French and Flemish origins. Lenglen was raised in a comfortable, middle class family by her father, Charles, and her...