MONEY IN TENNIS

New Zealand Times, Volume LIII, Issue 12516, 4 August 1926, Page 11

MONEY IN TENNIS

LENGLEN TURNS PROFESSIONAL ENGAGED FOR TOUR IN AMERICA TENNIS WORLD STARTLED Bv Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright. Australian and N Coble Association LONDON, August 2. It is officially stated that Mile. Suzanne Lenglen lias become a professional tennis, player, and has contracted to play a series of matches in America. Sporting critics regard Mile. Lenglen's decision as a bombshell, and one which may have a far*reaching effect upon tennis. It is conceded that Mile. Lenglen has no particular financial reason for throwing up her amateur status, .as a big income through films, hook-writing, and newspaper articles is assured, and her income from photograph fees alone is considerable. Her change-over will prevent her competing at the Riviera and Wimbledon tournaments, and may even affect her exhibition play. The “Daily Chronicle,” after discussing the matter, says that loading English amateurs, now playing at Eastbourne, declftre that there is -no general

move towards professionalism, but players are unable to say what may happen if promoters organise exhibition touring tournaments. Thus South African and Australian tours might tempt some amateurs. FOR EXHIBITION MATCHES (Received August 3. 7.35 p.m.) PAUI,S August 2. Mile. Lenglen, with her parents’ consent. has signed a contract with nil American, Mr Charles Pyle, to play exhibition matches, indoors and outdoors. In the United Stales, Canada, Cuba, and Mexico, for four months. It is understood she receives 110,000 dollars, plus an interest in film rights. Site will give her first exhibition on October 10th. Her mother and a maid will accompany her. ATt* Pyle states that Mile. T.englen will meet some of the best American nimi--leurs, and later lie hopes to take her on an extended tour of the world.