This film is part of Free

Ann Jones

Bernard Braden interviews British number one tennis player Ann Jones about controversial issues in the game.

1968 16 mins

Overview

Bernard Braden interviews British number one tennis player Ann Jones, discussing topical issues in the tennis world such as the subject of ‘open tournaments’ and the implications for the amateur game. Is the prize money fair for the women players and will the professionals have a considerable advantage? They also look at future changes in the game, with Jones commenting on possible uses of technology and how colour television will affect the game.

This interview was filmed for Bernard Braden’s series Now and Then, a project that was not ultimately completed or transmitted. At the time of recording the subject of ‘open’ tennis tournaments [joint amateur and professional] was controversial, as it had been announced that the next Wimbledon Championship would be the first open tournament. The Lawn Tennis Association had shaken up the tennis world by voting to abolish the distinction between amateur and professional, with all to be referred to simply as 'players'.