Wilson Sporting Goods

What started in 1913 as the Ashland Manufacturing Company, a modest subsidiary of a meatpacking firm seeking unique ways to utilize animal by-products, has grown into the global powerhouse known today as Wilson Sporting Goods Co. Initially focused on producing tennis racket strings, violin strings, and surgical sutures, the company’s trajectory was forever altered in 1915. Under the visionary leadership of Thomas E. Wilson, who was appointed president by controlling banks, the company was renamed and pivoted entirely toward the burgeoning world of sports. This strategic shift marked the beginning of a century-long journey defined by innovation and a relentless commitment to athletes.

Over the decades, Wilson has cemented its status as an American icon, weaving its way into the fabric of professional sports history. The company’s partnership with the National Football League is one of the longest in sports history, with the 'Duke' football serving as the official game ball since 1941. Beyond the gridiron, Wilson has left an indelible mark on the tennis court, crafting rackets wielded by legends such as Roger Federer and Serena Williams to capture countless Grand Slam titles. In basketball, Wilson’s return as the official ball supplier of the NBA in 2021 rekindled a historic relationship, further solidifying its dominance across major sports.

Today, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Wilson Sporting Goods Co. continues to push the boundaries of performance technology through its state-of-the-art Wilson Labs. As a key subsidiary of Amer Sports, the company employs thousands of passionate individuals dedicated to empowering every human to live like an athlete. From its humble meatpacking roots to its current standing as the world’s leading manufacturer of high-performance sports equipment, Wilson’s story is a testament to the enduring power of adaptation, quality, and the spirit of competition.