FUTURE OF SUZANNE

Evening Star, Issue 19328, 14 August 1926, Page 6

FUTURE OF SUZANNE

THE PROFESSIONAL STATUS A FLOOD OF CRITICISM, LONDON, August 4. Mile Suzanne Lenglen, the famous French tennis player, in a letter to Lady Wavertrco, her closest friend, savs she intends immediately to start training in Switzerland. A very heated controversy continues. Mr S. N. Doust says the consensus of opinion is that Milo Lenglen lias done the right thing in declaring for professionahsm, juiu Hint all others ? deep down, are envious of her opportunity. Lav is Satlerthwaitc says: “ It is wonderful that Mile Lenglen’s ability should produce such an offer.’’ Lady Wavertrec admires her decision, am Mrs Beamish thinks the tour will d( good to the women players of America. On the contrary, Commander Hilt yard, chairman of committees of the At England Tennis Association, tersely re. marks: “Suzanne’s only mistake ii that she did not become a professional six months ago.” Mrs H. Roper Bar rett says; “ The amateur tennis world is well rid of her.” French opinion almost generally disapproves of Suzanne’s action. A message from New York staves that universal regret is expressed at Milo Lenglen's professionalism. _ M:ss Helen Wills is disappointed that it will be impossible for her to play Suzanne again. Exhibition play with her will be out of the question. Mrs Mallory says she has no intention to play with prcltssionals; and the Misses Goss, .....i .teili Ryan, and Florence Ballin agreed vh.it it was a silly, haphazard financial adventure.

William Tilden denies anv intention of following the lead of Mile Lepglen. “1 believe Mile Lenglen realises that her temperament is unfitted for her' to continue in the amateur ranks, and that was the reason for her withdrawal at Wimbledon,” said Tilden. Tiie chairman of the Longwood Club, Boston, owns one of the three covered courts which Mile Lenglen proposes using. He is emphatic in saying that ho will not allow its use. “ The spirit of amateurism in American tennis is rather unique,” lie says, “and is the only thing that saves the game.”