The invention of the ball cannot be attributed to a single person, as it has evolved over thousands of years across many cultures. The earliest forms of balls were made from materials available at the time, such as animal bladders, stitched leather, and various types of plant fibers.
Historical records suggest that the ancient Greeks played a game called ‘episkyros’ which involved a ball made of animal hide. Similarly, the ancient Mesoamericans played a game using a rubber ball made from the sap of the rubber tree, known as ‘ullamaliztli’. These examples show that the concept of a ball was present in various civilizations independently.
Over the centuries, as games and sports developed, the design and materials of balls also improved. Different sports adopted different types of balls to meet their unique requirements. For example, baseballs, soccer balls, and basketballs all have distinct shapes and materials tailored to their respective games. In conclusion, while no single individual can be credited with inventing the ball, its development reflects a rich history involving many cultures and innovations.