Object ID:
2021.3.15
Label/Maker:
Association of Tennis Professionals
Date:
1992
Object Details:
This ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals) badge was the most significant milestone that Mary Lou Tierney achieved during her career. The horizontially designed badge includes "ATP Tour Chair Umpire" written in gold on a dark blue enamel background. The medal is attached to the uniform using a U back clip. The ATP is the governing body for the men's tennis tour and was established in 1989. The process of earning this certification required specific training and a written test. Mary Lou Tierney earned the ATP badge in 1992 and was one of five women in the world at the time with this achievement.
Reference:
Official Grand Slam Men's Rule Book, 1993Cultural Connections:
The ATP was founded in 1990 in London, England. The ATP is a men's only organization and the WTA, (Women's Tennis Association) is the female equivalent. The tennis tour includes the ATP masters 1000, which consists of nine tournaments with top ranked players. In addition, the ATP 500 is the fourth highest level of competition and the ATP 250 is the lowest tier.The ATP began a separate chair umpire certification program from the USTA (United States Tennis Association) and ITF.
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1993 ATP Tour Chair Umpire Badge
1993 ATP Tour Chair Umpire Badge