In preparation for the upcoming Citi Open tournament, here's a look at presidents playing tennis.
1909: William Howard Taft
More suited to golf, Taft had his rival Teddy Roosevelt's court demolished to make way for construction of the Oval Office. Mrs. Taft ordered it rebuilt on the South lawn, where it is today.
1923: Calvin Coolidge
The court fell quiet after 16-year-old Calvin Jr. developed a blister while hitting with his brother, John, leading to an infection that killed him weeks later.
1961: John F. Kennedy
A bad back hindered his play, but Jackie took lessons from local pro Allie Ritzenberg, who gently noted her lack of prowess. No matter:
"Why worry if you're not as good as Eunice or Ethel," Jackie told sister-in-law Joan, "when men are attracted by the feminine way you play?"
1974: Gerald Ford
Often photographed with golf club in hand, Ford was an "aggressive" tennis player, according to chief of staff Donald Rumsfeld. His real contribution was introducing his CIA director, George H.W. Bush, to the court.
1977: Jimmy Carter
A high-school tennis star, Carter stoked his reputation as a micromanager when it was leaked that even causal use of the court had to be approved by the President.
1989: George H.W. Bush
Poppy invited pros such as Pete Sampras and celebrities including George Plimpton, who recalled his surprise when an emergency phone rang during a set. The leader of the free world picked up, only to tell Plimpton, "It's for you, George."
2009: Barack Obama
Known more for his golf and basketball obsessions, Obama recently hit with the top-ranked Dane, Caroline Wozniaki. But First Lady Michelle Obama is the real fan, and elder daughter Malia has played on the varsity team at Sidwell friends.
2015: Jeb Bush
Of those currently vying to rule the White House court, this one has the most credit. Jeb was captain of Phillips Andover's team and competed at the University of Texas.