James Van Alen Bio

James Henry Van Alen (September 19, 1902 – July 3, 1991) is best known for being the founder of the International Tennis Hall of Fame, the largest tennis museum in the world. He was born and died in Newport, Rhode Island, USA. A poet, musician, publisher, civic leader and raconteur, Jimmy Van Alen achieved his greatest renown in tennis. His greatest legacies are as the inventor of the first tie breaker in tennis and as founder and primary benefactor of the International Tennis Hall of Fame and Museum at the Newport Casino, which he gave to the United States Tennis Association in 1954, saving the national landmark from a proposed car park. Contributions to tennis: President, Newport Casino 1952, President/Founder of National Hall of Fame, Inventor of the First Tie Breaker, Inventor of VASSS (Van Alen Streamlined Scoring System), National Court Tennis Singles and Doubles Champion. He died after striking his head in a fall at his home. That day, in a Wimbledon semi-final, Stefan Edberg lost to Michael Stich 4-6, 7-6 (7-5), 7-6 (7-5), 7-6 (7-2). Edberg didn't lose serve. Later, after hearing of Van Alen's death, Edberg said: "If he hadn't lived, Michael and I might still be out there playing".