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In the picturesque region of Baldissero d'Alba, Cuneo, a unique treasure trove of tennis history awaits visitors - the Tennis Museum. This museum, home to over 1400 racquets, has been the brainchild of Paolo Bertolino, a Turin native and stringer for 30 years.

Bertolino's passion for tennis and its equipment began in September 2017, and since then, he has been meticulously sourcing racquets from markets, online sites, and generous donations. The museum's collection spans from the earliest racquets dating back to 1820, predating modern tennis, to the latest carbon fiber models.

One of the most significant pieces in the museum is the Dunlop Maxply racquet, the most produced and sold in tennis history from 1928 to 1978. This racquet was wielded by tennis greats like Laver, Nastase, Panatta, and Lendl. The museum's collection is a testament to the evolution of tennis racquets, showcasing how materials have changed from wood to carbon fiber, and stringbeds have grown larger over time.

Italian tennis enthusiasts are particularly captivated by the museum, as it offers a glimpse into the golden moments of Italian tennis. The museum reminds us of the dream team of Panatta, Bertolucci, Barazzutti, and Zugarelli, who, led by captain Pietrangeli, won in Chile in '76. This victory was anticipated for fifty years and marked a significant moment in Italian tennis history.

The museum has already attracted visitors from various cities, including Rome, Venice, Latina, and England. Last year, an exhibition was held in Turin at the State Archives, and another one is likely this year. The museum has also made appearances outside Italy, with a selection of racquets displayed in London, at the Italian Chamber of Commerce, on the occasion of Wimbledon.

One of the most interesting finds in the museum is Pete Sampras' Wilson Pro Staff Original St Vincent, which was discovered in a market for a few euros. Some racquets are preserved in glass cases to protect their fragility, while others are adorned with the faces of historical tennis players.

The museum's potential expansion includes going on tour, possibly to the location of the US Open final. The museum can also be set up for exhibitions outside Baldissero d'Alba, selecting the most precious or functional pieces. The racket museum is a place where tennis enthusiasts would want to spend a lot of time, immersing themselves in the history and evolution of the game's equipment.