Oliver Campbell

Oliver Edward Michael Campbell was an American tennis pro. He was a native of New York City, having been born in Brooklyn in February 25, 1871.

Campbell is best known for his youth and power. In 1886, at fifteen years old, he was the youngest competitor in Newport to have earned a spot in the Grand Slam match, challenging but not defeating, Henry Slocum in the opening round. He held the record for being the youngest player ever to compete, until the title went to Vinnie Richards in 1918, who was a younger 15 when he competed in the event that very year. More importantly though, Campbell held the record for being the youngest male player, at 19 years old, to have won a U.S. singles title. This victory came in 1890,when he was a college student at Columbia University. This honor and distinction, however, went to young hotshot Pete Sampras, because he was months younger than Campbell when he won the same title in 1990.

In essence, Campbell was the golden boy of tennis during his time, the Pete Sampras of his generation. He occupied the top spot in the world rankings for tennis from 1890 to 1892. His strategy was to perfect his skill as a volleyer instead of a baseliner. His strategy worked of course, as he became the Singles champion for three consecutive years, 1890 through 1892. He beat Henry Slocum in 1890, Clarence Hobart in 1891 and Fred Hovey in 1892. He also dominated the ranks in the Men's Doubles match in 1888, 1891 and 1892.

After his victory in 1892, Campbell opted to retire at 22 years old. As a result, he left his title to Bob Wrenn by default in the 1893 Grand Slam event. After retirement he settled in Campellton, Canada, where he died in July 11, 1953. He was inducted into the Tennis Hall of Fame two years after his death, in 1955.