ABOUT "LITTLE MO"
THE STORY of "LITTLE MO"
In 1953, a young girl named Maureen Connolly won the Grand Slam of tennis. She was the first woman to ever capture this elusive crown by winning the Australian Championships, the French Championships, Wimbledon, and the United States Championships. She was only 18 years old when she accomplished this magnificent feat. From that time on, Maureen was known as the incomparable "Little Mo".
In July 1954, "Little Mo" injured her leg in a horseback riding accident which ended her tennis career. She continued to be a major influence in the world of tennis. She married Norman Brinker, and they made their home in Dallas with their two daughters, Cindy and Brenda.
As one of Dallas' new residents, "Little Mo" was anxious to promote her beloved game of tennis and in 1968, she joined her dear friend, Nancy Jeffett to co-found the Maureen Connolly Brinker Tennis Foundation. Unfortunately, her tragic death of cancer occurred six months later on the eve of Wimbledon.
The "Little Mo" Movie
We hope you will find some time to watch the “Little Mo” movie (made for TV in 1978) about Maureen Connolly. The movie is about 2.5 hours long and features some major movie stars like Mark Harmon, Leslie Nielsen, and Glynnis O'Connor. It is a wonderful movie for the entire family and is very inspirational for young players who love the game of tennis. Click here to watch the "Little Mo" movie.
Maureen Connolly "Mo" Memories
Below you will find authentic and memorable content about Little Mo:
Little Mo Photo Album
The Little Mo Movie
Maureen's Decision to Retire
Little Mo's Legacy - a book by Maureen's daughter Cindy Brinker Simmons
"Little Mo" Commemorative Forever Stamp
In 2019, the United States Postal Service issued a beautiful “Little Mo” Commemorative Forever Stamp in honor of Maureen Connolly Brinker! This special stamp was available for purchase in 33,000 post offices nationwide.
This issuance honored extraordinary tennis champion Maureen Connolly Brinker (1934-1969). The stamp art features an oil-on-linen painting of the tennis star by Gregory Manchess. Based on a black-and-white photograph taken in 1952, the portrait is a colorful interpretation of Connolly hitting a low volley. Nicknamed “Little Mo,” the 5-foot-4-inch dynamo used powerful groundstrokes to become the first woman to win all four major tennis tournaments in a calendar year. Art director Derry Noyes designed the stamp.
“Mom would be thrilled and humbled with this amazing honor by the United States Postal Service,” said Cindy Brinker Simmons, president of MCB and daughter of Maureen Connolly Brinker. “She was a remarkable woman who just happened to be a very good tennis player. Mom’s career was over 65 years ago, and yet her esteemed legacy and significant impact continue to be highly recognized today. My sister Brenda and I are so incredibly proud of this astounding and touching tribute to her.”
Get to know us
Our Story
Read the story of how the Maureen Connolly Brinker Tennis Foundation was founded and our mission.
"Little Mo" Champions
Check out our former "Little Mo" Champions who are now top juniors, college players, and pros.