William Tilden

William Tatem “Bill” Tilden aka “Big Bill” is a professional tennis player from the Untied States. He was born on February 10, 1893 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, into a wealthy family and had suffered the loss of three older siblings. His mother was a semi-invalid who died when he was just 15 years old. He lived frequently with a maiden aunt despite the fact that his father was wealthy enough to maintain a large house full of staff, and by the time he was 19, Tilden lost his older brother and father. His loss caused him to fall into depression until he was able to recover through playing tennis.

Tilden’s tennis playing career did not start too well. He was not at the top spot at Germantown Academy, and was not even good enough to be included in his college tennis team. Being shy, a bit self-absorbed, and a decidedly arrogant young man, Tilden began to practice playing tennis after dropping out of the University of Pennsylvania. Through his self-learning, he became a dedicated learner of tennis, and within 3 years of practice, he subsequently rose up the ranks.

Tilden had what most would refer to as a “ideal tennis build.” He stood at 6 feet 2 inches tall, weighed 155 pounds, and had think shanks paired with big shoulders. He had acquired a speed and nimbleness when playing the game which went well with his perfect balance and great coordination. Despite living an unhealthy lifestyle for an athlete, Tilden was definitely a force to be reckoned with.

Despite having a rocky start to his tennis career, Tilden still managed to garner 21 Grand Slam titles, and an additional of more notable titles under his belt. Although things went awfully wrong on his last few years of playing the sport, Tilden would still become considered to be the greatest tennis player of all. He died in June 5, 1953 of heart attack in his room while preparing to play for the U.S. Pro Championships in Cleveland.