Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Sport > Tennis
Vivian McGrath
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Vivian McGrath
Australian tennis player Vivian Viv McGrath (1916-1978), here aged sixteen. He was famous for his two-handed backhand. Date: 1932
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 32250304
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
1932 Action Australian Grip Mcgrath Nineteen Player Players Racket Tennis Vivian Backhand
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Sport
> Tennis
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images July 2023
> Popular Themes
> Tennis
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photograph, sixteen-year-old Australian tennis sensation Vivian McGrath (1916-1978) is shown in the midst of an impressive backhand stroke during a match in the 1930s. McGrath, affectionately known as "Viv," was a rising star in the tennis world, renowned for his unique two-handed backhand, a technique that set him apart from his contemporaries. The image captures McGrath in a focused and determined pose, with his racket poised at the ready as he prepares to make contact with the ball. His grip on the racket is firm yet fluid, a testament to the power and finesse of his playing style. The creases in his white tennis outfit and the sweat on his brow suggest the intensity of the match, while the contrast between the dark court and the brightly lit scene adds to the dynamic energy of the moment. McGrath's tennis career began in earnest in the late 1920s, and he quickly rose through the ranks to become a formidable player on the Australian and international circuits. His innovative two-handed backhand, which he developed after observing American player Bill Tilden, proved to be a game-changer, and he went on to win numerous titles and accolades throughout the 1930s and 1940s. Despite his impressive achievements on the tennis court, McGrath's life was not without its challenges. He served in the Australian military during World War II, and later struggled with alcoholism, which ultimately led to his untimely death in 1978 at the age of 62. Nevertheless, his legacy as a pioneering tennis player and innovator lives on, and this photograph serves as a poignant reminder of his enduring impact on the sport. This photograph, taken in 1932, is a rare and valuable glimpse into the early career of a tennis legend. The image is part of the Consolidated Archive Holdings Ltd collection from Mary Evans Prints Online.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
