LONDON — In a heartwarming personal announcement that has delighted the tennis world, British No. 1 Cameron Norrie has revealed that he is engaged to his long-term girlfriend, Louise Jacobi, whom he lovingly referred to as his "best friend."
The 28-year-old top-ranked British men's tennis player shared the joyful news on his Instagram account on Tuesday, posting a series of intimate, sun-drenched photographs from the couple's recent holiday in Greece. The images capture the moment of the proposal itself, with Norrie on one knee against a stunning coastal backdrop, as well as several loving shots of the newly-engaged couple beaming with happiness.
The caption accompanying the photos was simple yet profoundly heartfelt, reading: "She said yes!! My best friend for life. So excited to marry you @louisejacobi. I love you and can't wait for forever with you ❤️." The post was immediately flooded with congratulatory messages from fellow tennis stars, fans, and friends, amassing tens of thousands of likes within hours.
A Love Story Forged in New York
Norrie and Jacobi, a 26-year-old fashion influencer and marketing graduate, first met in New York City in 2020. Their relationship began to blossom during the global pandemic, a period that allowed them to form a deep bond while navigating the unique challenges of the tennis tour's restricted "bubble" environments. Jacobi, who is of German nationality, has been a constant and supportive presence in Norrie's player's box at tournaments around the world ever since.
In a 2022 interview with the Telegraph, Norrie opened up about the stability and happiness Jacobi brings to his high-pressure life on tour, stating, "She’s been amazing for me. She’s super positive and she’s helped me a lot with my tennis, just being there and supporting me. She understands the sport and she understands the lifestyle."
This understanding is crucial. The life of a professional tennis player involves constant travel, intense pressure, and frequent time away from home. Having a partner who comprehends these demands has been cited by Norrie as a key factor in his ability to maintain his focus and composure on the court, contributing significantly to his rise into the world's top 10.
A Pillar of Support Through Ups and Downs
Louise Jacobi has become a familiar face to tennis fans, often seen cheering passionately for Norrie during his biggest matches. Her unwavering support has been a cornerstone of his career through both triumphant victories and challenging defeats. She was there for his historic run to the Wimbledon semi-finals in 2022 and has been a steadying force during the inevitable ebbs and flows of the ATP Tour.
The couple's relationship is built on a foundation of shared interests and mutual respect. Beyond tennis, they often share glimpses of their life together on social media, showcasing a love for travel, fashion, and spending quality time with their dog. This well-rounded partnership provides Norrie with a vital sense of normalcy and balance away from the glare of the professional sporting spotlight.
Norrie has frequently credited Jacobi with helping him manage the mental rigors of the tour. In various interviews, he has highlighted how her positive outlook and emotional support have been instrumental. He once noted, "It’s nice to have someone to come back to after a tough match or a tough loss, and she’s always there for me."
The Tennis World Sends Its Congratulations
The announcement was met with an outpouring of joy from across the tennis community. Fellow players, past and present, were quick to congratulate the couple in the comments section of Norrie's Instagram post. The response underscores the high regard in which Norrie is held by his peers, both for his sportsmanship and his character.
Among the many well-wishers was Australian star Nick Kyrgios, who commented, "Let’s gooo congrats!" British compatriot and former world No. 1 Andy Murray's wife, Kim Sears, simply wrote, "Yessss! So happy!"
Other notable figures from the sport who shared their congratulations included:
- Katie Boulter, Norrie's fellow British No. 1
- Taylor Fritz, American top-10 player
- John Peers, Australian doubles specialist
- Billy Harris, British tennis player
This widespread support highlights not just Norrie's professional standing but the genuine affection the tennis family has for the couple. Their relationship is seen as one of the tour's most solid and endearing partnerships, a modern love story playing out alongside Grand Slams and ATP Masters events.
Looking Ahead: Marriage and More Tennis
The engagement comes at a pivotal time in Norrie's career. Currently ranked World No. 42, he is in the midst of the grueling grass-court season, building up to his home Grand Slam, Wimbledon. The personal joy of this milestone could provide a significant mental boost as he aims to recapture the form that saw him reach the semi-finals at the All England Club two years ago.
For a player known for his incredible physical fitness and relentless work ethic, this happy personal news offers a different kind of strength. The security and commitment of an impending marriage can serve as a powerful anchor, providing perspective and emotional resilience during the inevitable pressures of competition at the highest level.
As Cameron Norrie and Louise Jacobi look forward to planning their future together, the tennis world watches on with warmth and admiration. Their story is a poignant reminder that behind every athlete's powerful forehand and determined stare lies a personal life filled with its own milestones, dreams, and, in this beautiful case, a promise of forever with a best friend.
The couple has not yet announced a date for their wedding, which will undoubtedly require careful scheduling around the ATP Tour calendar. For now, they are simply basking in the glow of their engagement, a moment of pure personal triumph that rivals any victory on the court.