Longest Games by Emily James

Longest Games explores the captivating history of sports history's most protracted contests, pushing athletes to their physical and mental limits. It examines the physiological and psychological impacts of extreme exertion, the evolution of sporting regulations, and the cultural significance of these endurance tests. For instance, early cricket matches, lacking time constraints, sometimes stretched on endlessly, while early tennis matches could feature marathon sets due to the absence of tie-breaks. These events have become deeply embedded in sports lore, celebrated for the tenacity displayed, not just the final score. The book argues these extreme sporting events serve as microcosms of human striving, revealing our capacity to endure hardship.

Structured in four parts, Longest Games introduces the concept, examines case studies in tennis, cricket, and baseball, analyzes the impact and rule changes prompted by these events, and draws conclusions about the future of sports. It uses archival records, sports journalism, and scientific studies, offering a balanced analysis of the sporting, scientific, and social dimensions of these extreme contests.

This book stands out by offering a holistic perspective, blending rigorous research with engaging storytelling. By avoiding a sensationalist approach, it provides valuable insights for sports enthusiasts and anyone interested in the limits of human potential, offering a comprehensive overview of a unique aspect of sports history and insightful analysis of broader themes of sports psychology and sports sociology.