What the Open Era Changed in 1968

Until 1968, professionals were banned from Wimbledon, Roland Garros and the rest, and the majors were amateur only. Legends like Laver, Rosewall, Gonzales and Hoad lost their peak years to the pro tours.

When the sport opened in 1968, professionals returned, prize money grew, and the modern tour took shape. Arthur Ashe won the first Open Era US Open, and Laver completed his second calendar Grand Slam in 1969 against full fields..