Yes. Better visibility on television was the documented reason for introducing yellow balls into the rules of tennis. They were not always the sport's familiar default.
The International Tennis Federation records that yellow balls entered the rules in 1972 after research showed they were more visible to television audiences. Wimbledon's own educational material also links its change from white to yellow balls to visibility on colour television.
The transition did not happen everywhere at once. Wimbledon kept using white balls until 1986, fourteen years after yellow balls were introduced into the rules. Permission to use a new colour and its adoption by a particular tournament were separate steps.
Television visibility drove the introduction of yellow tennis balls. Wimbledon adopted them later than the international rule change.
International Tennis Federation
The ITF's historical account states that yellow balls were introduced into the rules in 1972 after research showed they were more visible to television viewers.
Based on: International Tennis Federation
Wimbledon
Wimbledon's educational pack states that its switch from white to yellow balls in 1986 made them easier to see on colour television.
Based on: Wimbledon
International Tennis Federation and Wimbledon
The sources distinguish the introduction of yellow balls into the rules in 1972 from Wimbledon's adoption in 1986.
Based on: International Tennis Federation · Wimbledon
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