Today in Performance Sneaker History: Jimmy Connors is Born in East St. Louis, Illinois

Not Available Lead
Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

Not Available Lead

On September 2, 1952, former World No. 1 tennis player Jimmy Connors was born in East St. Louis, Illinois. Over his illustrious 24 year career, Connors earned a reputation as one of the game's greatest players of all time. With eight Grand Slim titles to his name, Jimmy Connors was especially successful in the US Open; he won the men's singles at the event in 1974, 1976, 1978, 1982, and 1983.

Connors racked up an unmatched 109 ATP singles titles throughout his lengthy career, more than any other male player since the open era began in 1968. Ivan Lendl comes in second with 94, while John McEnroe and Roger Federer trail behind with 77 apiece. Connors had brief rivalries with both McEnroe and Lendl, but his most infamous opponent was none other than Björn Borg. The two met on a number of occasions, with Borg getting the best of Connors in the long run and leading their record at 15-8.

When it comes to sneakers, Connors is associated with Converse and their early styles such as the Jack Purcell, which he wore during his 1974 Australian Open win. Eventually, in 1984, Converse introduced the signature Jimmy Connors model, and he stuck with the brand for the majority of his career.

Happy birthday to tennis legend Jimmy Connors!

RELATED: The Sneakers Worn by the 10 Most Notable Men’s Singles Champs of the Australian Open

RELATED:
Today in Wimbledon History: Björn Borg Wins 1977 Men’s Singles Championship in Fila