The Texas Tennis Museum & Hall of Fame honors the champions, innovators, and everyday players who built the game across generations. It’s a place where the stories of Texas tennis come alive, from small-town courts and grassroots programs to world-class tournaments and national heroes.
 

Our Story

Founded in 1981 by Charlie and Emadele McCleary, the museum began as a modest tribute to the pioneers of Texas tennis. In 1993, it joined the Texas Sports Hall of Fame Complex in Waco, establishing a permanent home dedicated to preserving the state’s tennis history.

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Over the past four decades, the museum has grown into a vibrant, immersive destination featuring interactive displays, digital archives, and beautifully curated galleries that celebrate how the game has shaped Texas culture.

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Explore the Collection

Visitors can experience the full evolution of tennis in Texas through exhibits that blend history, style, and storytelling:
 

Hall of Fame Gallery
Honoring more than 150 inductees whose achievements and service have made a lasting impact.
 

Historic Equipment & Fashion
Explore the progression of racquets, apparel, and gear, from early wooden frames to the sleek technology of today.
 

Champions & Tournaments
Relive the moments that defined Texas tennis, from junior and collegiate competition to professional events like the Virginia Slims and World Championship Tennis circuits.
 

Grassroots & Community Tennis
Discover how volunteers, teachers, and local associations grew the game across schools, parks, and cities.
 

Interactive & Multimedia Exhibits
Engage with touchscreen kiosks, oral histories, and short films that bring the sport’s past to life.
 

Every corner of the museum tells a story of talent, determination, and the enduring power of sport to connect people.
 

The Experience

Recent renovations have transformed the museum into a modern, welcoming space designed for discovery. Enhanced lighting, seating, updated displays, and new multimedia installations make each visit more engaging than ever.

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Whether you’re a lifelong player, a casual fan, or new to the sport, the museum invites you to walk in the footsteps of legends, learn about the game’s pioneers, and celebrate the communities that keep Texas tennis thriving.

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