As an expert in the field of sports history, I have a deep understanding of the evolution of women's tennis and the players who have shaped it. In the 1920s, the landscape of women's tennis was marked by a few exceptional individuals whose skills and achievements set the stage for the modern game we know today. Among these players, Molla Mallory, Suzanne Lenglen, and Helen Wills stand out as the most dominant figures of the era.

Molla Mallory was an American tennis player who rose to prominence in the early 1920s. Born in 1894, Mallory was known for her powerful serve and aggressive playing style. She won the U.S. Women's Singles Championship six times between 1915 and 1923, which was a remarkable feat at the time. Mallory's dominance was not just limited to singles; she also had a successful doubles career, winning the Women's Doubles title at Wimbledon in 1920 and 1921, and the mixed doubles title in 1921.

However, despite Mallory's success, she was often overshadowed by Suzanne Lenglen of France. Lenglen, born in 1899, was a true pioneer of women's tennis. She was the first woman to turn professional and was known for her grace and artistry on the court. Lenglen's style was a stark contrast to Mallory's, as she favored finesse and strategy over power. She was the World No. 1 player for most of the 1920s and won six consecutive Wimbledon titles from 1919 to 1925. Lenglen's impact on the game was so profound that she was often referred to as "la Divine," a testament to her god-like status in the tennis world.

Yet, the player who truly came to define the 1920s in women's tennis was Helen Wills. Born in 1905, Wills was a Californian who began her tennis career at a young age. She won her first U.S. Women's Singles Championship in 1923, marking the beginning of a legendary career. Wills was known for her elegant playing style, which combined finesse with a strong baseline game. She was also a fierce competitor with an incredible work ethic, which contributed to her success.

Wills' dominance in the 1920s was unparalleled. She won a total of seven U.S. Women's Singles titles and six Wimbledon titles during the decade. Her rivalry with Lenglen was one of the most famous in tennis history, with their matches drawing large crowds and intense interest from the public. Unfortunately, the two never played each other in an official capacity, which has left many to speculate about who would have come out on top.

In conclusion, while Molla Mallory was a dominant force in the early 1920s, it was Suzanne Lenglen and Helen Wills who truly shaped the decade in women's tennis. Lenglen's innovative style and Wills' consistent excellence set the standard for future generations of players. Their legacies continue to influence the game, and they remain icons of the sport.

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In the early 1920s, Molla Mallory was the dominant U.S. player, but she was overshadowed by Suzanne Lenglen of France. In 1923 Helen Wills won her 1st U.S. championship, and she was the outstanding female tennis player of the 1920s.read more >>