TENNIS.

Hokitika Guardian, 10 August 1928, Page 1

TENNIS.

Australian Press Assn.— United Ser~>r ; < PARIS, Auk. S. LaeosLe has definitely decided not to defend his American .singles championship title. TENNIS IN U.S.A. NEW YORK, Aug. 9. The return of the defeated American Davis Cup team to-day brought actively to American attention two facts, namely, that an important decision must shortly bo reached concerning Ti Id oil’s position, and that something in the nature of a revolution in American tennis is impending. The United States Lawn Tennis Association’s Executive will render a decision as to Tilden’s amateur standing on August 21th. and it is surmised that he will he declared a 'professional, despite the fact that it is understood Tilden’s defence will he that he in no way violated the player-writer rule by “covering” Wimbledon in a news sense, hut actually only commented thereon. The position is complicated by the fact that Tihlen is still, the greatest drawing card with the public, and his disqualifies ton would seriously minimise popular interest in the forthcoming national singles and doubles. Date receipts in American tennis have unquestionably assumed such vast importance that they frankly o-vrshadow the ostensible amateur character of this sport. New York. Philadelphia and lioston Clulv have erected monster plants, at great cost, and these institutions face financial peril from anything that will reduce the number of spectators at important mafches.

It is learned on excellent authority that important tennis interests are so worried over the situation, including the probability that Tilden. always the stormy petrel of American tennis, would be disqualified, that it is seriously considered that if the latter is declared a professional. t:> permit the use of the Rest Side Stadium and 'other important Stadiums for open championships, and if possible, to arrange a series of matches between professionals and amateurs immediately after the national singles on September loth, to recoup the financial losses. It is understood that Vincent Richards has been consulted, and it is believed lie would be ready, if Tilden joined him, to bring over certain wellknown Euro [Xian professionals for these matches.

Tiklen, however, to-day declared he would not play professional tennis, even if declared a professional.

Open championships would undoubtedly completely change the character of American tennis, with unforseeable consequences.

COCT-TET TO TOUR. PARIS, August 0,

Coc-het has accepted the Australian Tennis Federation’s invitation to Australia in '1928. He- will probably be accompanied by one or two young players chosen by the French Federation. He will be returning via India and Egypt.