Former Wimbledon Champion Angela Mortimer Dies at 93

Angela Mortimer, a celebrated former Wimbledon champion, has passed away at the age of 93, as confirmed by the All England Club. Mortimer, who was born in Plymouth, claimed the ladies’ singles title at the prestigious tournament in 1961. This victory was one of three major titles she secured during her remarkable career, which also included wins at the French Championships in 1955 and the Australian Championships in 1958.

In addition to her singles success, Mortimer triumphed in the women’s doubles at Wimbledon in 1955, partnering with Anne Shilcock. Throughout her career, she accumulated an impressive total of 108 career titles and was once recognized as the world’s top female player. Notably, she achieved these remarkable feats while managing hearing loss; she was partially deaf when she won her singles title at Wimbledon, a challenge she later said helped her concentrate better by blocking out distractions.

A Life Marked by Resilience and Triumph

Mortimer faced numerous obstacles during her career, including a severe illness that left her weakened and caused significant weight loss. Despite these challenges, she continued to excel in the sport she loved. In recognition of her contributions to tennis, Mortimer was awarded an MBE in 1967 and was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1993.

She passed away in the early hours of August 25, 2023. Mortimer is survived by her husband, John Barrett, a former tennis player, commentator, and author, along with their children and grandchildren.

A statement from the All England Club expressed profound sadness at her passing: “The All England Club is deeply saddened to learn of the death of our 1961 Ladies’ Singles Champion, Angela Mortimer Barrett MBE, who died in the early hours of Monday 25 August, aged 93. During her career, she won three Grand Slam singles titles and one doubles title. She achieved all this despite facing significant periods of adversity.”

Deborah Jevans, Chair of the All England Club, added, “Angela will be remembered for her determination and extraordinary dedication which saw her overcome significant challenges to rise to the top of tennis. Her passing leaves a hole in the fabric of the Club, and she will be greatly missed. On behalf of everyone at the All England Club, I offer my sincere condolences to Angela’s husband, John; their children, Michael and Sarah Jane; grandchildren, family and friends.”

The legacy of Angela Mortimer will resonate within the tennis community, where her achievements and spirit continue to inspire.