The Open Era in tennis began in _________ when the Grand Slam tournaments agreed to allow professional players to compete with amateurs.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. 1968.
- In early 1968, the four Grand Slam tournaments, including the US Open, French Open, Australian Open, and Wimbledon, agreed to allow professionals to compete alongside amateurs, initiating the Open Era.
- In April 1968, the first Open Era tournament was the British Hard Court Championships.
- It took place in England in April. Shortly after, in May, the first French Open signaled the first Open Era Grand Slam tournament.
- Both tournaments were won by Ken Rosewall, who had transitioned from amateur to professional in 1957.