Perry Jones

Perry Jones was a towering figure in American tennis administration, often called "Mr. Tennis of the West Coast."

As the longtime leader of Southern California tennis, Jones transformed the region into a powerhouse of player development and tournament prestige. He was instrumental in building the Los Angeles Tennis Club’s reputation.

He was also the driving force behind the Pacific Southwest Championships, regarded as the second most important U.S. tournament of its era.

Profile and Personal Life

Perry T. Jones was born on June 22, 1890. He became synonymous with tennis in Southern California, establishing his office at the Los Angeles Tennis Club.

With the support of his secretary, Doris Cooke, Jones built a vast network of junior development patrons stretching from Santa Barbara to San Diego. His leadership and fundraising skills elevated the Los Angeles Tennis Club and the Southern California Tennis Association to national prominence.

Jones was known for his insistence on schooling, cleanliness, proper attire, and sportsmanship, values he believed were essential to producing champions. However, his strict rules—such as mandating all-white outfits—sometimes posed obstacles for less affluent players. He passed away on September 16, 1970.

Career

Taking control of Southern California tennis in the 1930s, Jones ran the Pacific Southwest Championships, which became the nation’s premier event outside the U.S. Championships.

His tenure saw the emergence of numerous tennis greats, both men and women, whom he mentored and supported through his extensive network. Jones’s office at the Los Angeles Tennis Club became the epicenter of American tennis development, and his influence shaped the careers of legends such as Ellsworth Vines, Jack Kramer, Pancho Gonzales, Stan Smith, Arthur Ashe, Pauline Betz, Maureen Connolly, Billie Jean King, and many others.

As the "Czar" of Southern California tennis, Jones was both a powerful advocate and, at times, a gatekeeper. His adherence to tradition and strict standards occasionally created hurdles for emerging players, most notably Billie Jean King, who faced several roadblocks early in her career due to his policies.

In 1958, Jones was appointed captain of the USA Davis Cup team. He recruited and mentored Alex Olmedo, Barry MacKay, and Ham Richardson, leading the team to victory over Australia. Tennis icons Jack Kramer and Pancho Gonzales served as his advisors during this campaign.

Jones established the Southern California Tennis Association Hall of Fame in 1968 and was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1970, cementing his status as a foundational figure in American tennis.