Hall of Fame Eligibility Criteria

Established in 1954, the International Tennis Hall of Fame annually inducts new members. Through 1974 only Americans were considered for Hall of Fame status. In 1975, with the growth of tennis internationally, Hall of Fame eligibility was extended to include candidates worldwide, with Fred Perry of Great Britain being the first international player inducted. Players are elected based on their records of competitive achievement, with ancillary consideration given to sportsmanship and character. Individuals are elected in one of three categories:

Recent Player Category Eligibility Criteria

  • Active as competitors in the sport within the last 20 years prior to consideration.
  • Not a significant factor on the ATP, WTA or Wheelchair Tennis tours within five years prior to induction.
  • A distinguished record of competitive achievement at the highest international level, with consideration given to integrity, sportsmanship and character.

To be inducted as a Recent Player, a panel of the international tennis media votes on Recent Player nominees; a 75% favorable vote is required for Enshrinement.

Master Player Category Eligibility Criteria

  • Competitors in the sport who have been retired for at least 20 years prior to consideration.
  • A distinguished record of competitive achievement at the highest international level, with consideration given to integrity, sportsmanship and character.

To be inducted as a Master Player, an affirmative vote of 75% or higher is necessary. The International Masters Panel, which consists of Hall of Fame Enshrinees and other individuals who are highly knowledgeable of the sport and its history, selects the Master Player Enshrinees.

Contributor Category Eligibility Criteria

  • Exceptional contributions that have furthered the growth, reputation and character of the sport, in categories such as administration, media, coaching and officiating.
  • Contributor candidates do not need to be retired from their activities related to the sport.

To be inducted as a Contributor, a nominee must receive the following: a) an affirmative vote of 75% or higher, and b) the highest percentage of affirmative votes. The International Masters Panel, which consists of Hall of Fame Enshrinees and other individuals who are highly knowledgeable of the sport and its history, selects the Contributor Enshrinees.

Proceed to the Hall of Fame nomination forms.