Houston, 11 April 2011 | tennis.com.au

Australian tennis legends Roy Emerson and Owen Davidson have received their official International Tennis Hall of Fame rings at a special ceremony in Houston today.

The Aussie pair were honoured alongside Texas native Nancy Richey before the opening day’s play at the US Men’s Claycourt Championships.

The newly developed, one-of-a-kind rings will be presented to Hall of Famers at tennis events around the world over the next several years to mark their achievement of Hall of Fame induction.

The rings are etched with each honoree’s name and induction year, and the Hall of Fame logo crest. Richey was inducted to the Hall of Fame in 2003, Emerson in 1982 and Davidson in 2010.

“Nancy, Roy and Owen have all won the most coveted titles in tennis and have achieved rankings among the best players in the sport. As Hall of Famers, they are among an elite group of athletes and contributors. We are pleased to be able to recognize this achievement with this special ring, which only the most successful and influential individuals in tennis will have the honor of wearing,” said Christopher E. Clouser, chairman of the International Tennis Hall of Fame & Museum.

Emerson was regarded as tennis’ model of fitness and sportsmanship during his successful career that spanned amateur and open eras.

Fondly known as “Emmo,” he captured a staggering 12 Grand Slam singles titles and 16 Grand Slam doubles titles between 1959 and 1971, and he is still the only male player to have won both singles and doubles at all four Grand Slams.

Davidson, also an Australian tennis great, is one of just 13 people who have won a calendar-year Grand Slam at the Tour level, which he achieved in mixed doubles in 1967 when partnered with Lesley Turner Bowrey and Billie Jean King.

His 15-year career was highlighted by 12 Grand Slam titles. “Davo,” as he is known, went on to win the Australian Open Doubles with Ken Rosewall in 1972, and the US Open doubles with John Newcombe in 1973.