Game, Set, Match: The Legacy of the Dunlop Maxply Fort Wooden Tennis Racket
- The Happy Antiquer
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
For any lover of sport, heritage, or vintage design, the Dunlop Maxply Fort wooden tennis racket stands as a timeless symbol of tennis history. First introduced in the early 1930s, this iconic piece of equipment didn’t just help win matches—it helped shape the game itself.
At Objet d’Art Stuff, we’re proud to offer an original Vintage Dunlop Maxply Fort Wooden Tennis Racket, complete with its original wooden press, preserving the shape and spirit of an era when tennis was every bit about craftsmanship as it was competition.
A Champion’s Choice
Used by some of the most legendary players in tennis history, including Rod Laver, John McEnroe, and Virginia Wade, the Dunlop Maxply Fort became synonymous with excellence on the court.

Its laminated wooden frame, crafted from ash, maple, and other premium timbers, was prized for delivering power, control, and feel. Each racket was carefully constructed to balance weight and flexibility—long before carbon fibre revolutionised the sport.
From Wimbledon lawns to club courts across the globe, the Maxply Fort became the wooden racket of choice for elite and amateur players alike throughout the mid-20th century.
The Art of Play
Unlike modern rackets made from graphite or aluminium, wooden rackets like the Maxply Fort demanded a different kind of finesse. Players relied more on skill and touch than brute power. The sweet spot was smaller, the margin for error slimmer—and the game, arguably, more elegant.
Using a wooden racket today offers a nostalgic and tactile playing experience. For collectors, decorators, or tennis enthusiasts, it also makes a beautiful display piece that speaks to the golden age of the sport.
Preserving History: Why the Original Press Matters
One of the unique features of our vintage listing is the inclusion of the original wooden racket press. These devices were once essential for maintaining the shape of wooden rackets, preventing warping caused by humidity or heat.
The presence of the press not only helps preserve the racket’s form—it adds authenticity and value for collectors.
A Statement Piece Off the Court
Whether displayed in a sports room, mounted in a vintage-themed café, or included in a theatre prop collection, this classic piece evokes a sense of tradition and timeless athleticism. It's more than just equipment—it's sporting art.
Product Summary
Vintage Dunlop Maxply Fort Wooden Tennis Racket
Includes original wooden press
Great condition for age, with light wear consistent with use
Ideal as a collector’s item, gift for tennis lovers, or stage/set prop
Shop it now at Objet d’Art Stuff
🎾 Love Tennis? Love History? You’ll Love This.
Owning a vintage tennis racket like the Dunlop Maxply Fort is like holding a piece of Wimbledon in your hands. It’s not just a sporting relic—it's a testament to skill, tradition, and design excellence.
Ready to serve up a piece of history?
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