The tennis world is in mourning following the announcement that Angela Mortimer-Barrett, the 1961 Wimbledon ladies' singles champion and one of Britain's most revered post-war sporting icons, has died at the age of 93. A formidable competitor who overcame significant hearing difficulties to reach the pinnacle of her sport, Mortimer-Barrett passed away peacefully on Friday, May 10, 2024, her family confirmed.
LONDON — Born Angela Mortimer in Plymouth in 1932, she rose to fame during a golden era for British tennis, capturing three major singles titles and becoming the first British woman to win Wimbledon since Dorothy Round in 1937. Her victory on the hallowed grass of the All England Club was a defining moment, cementing her legacy as a player of immense grit, tactical intelligence, and a famously powerful forehand.
The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) led the tributes, stating, "Angela was a true legend of our sport and a wonderful role model. Her achievements, particularly her iconic Wimbledon win in 1961, continue to inspire generations of players. She will be deeply missed, and our thoughts are with her family and friends at this time."
A Champion Forged Through Adversity
Mortimer's path to greatness was anything but straightforward. She lost most of her hearing after a bout of scarlet fever as a child, a challenge that profoundly shaped her character and her approach to the game. Unable to hear line calls or the applause of the crowd, she developed an intense concentration and a steely resolve that became her trademarks on the court.
Her career was a testament to perseverance. Before her Wimbledon triumph, she had already claimed major titles at the Australian Championships in 1955 and the French Championships in 1958, defeating the great Shirley Fry in a thrilling final. Her game was built on consistency, a formidable serve, and that crushing forehand, which she used to dictate play from the baseline.
Fellow British tennis icon and former Fed Cup captain Virginia Wade remarked, "Angela was a fierce competitor and a beautiful ball striker. To achieve what she did while navigating the world in near silence is nothing short of extraordinary. She was an inspiration to us all."
The Pinnacle: Wimbledon 1961
The crowning glory of Mortimer's career came on Centre Court in the summer of 1961. Seeded fourth, she navigated a tough draw to set up a final against the top-seeded and fellow Briton, Christine Truman Janes. In a tense and nervy match played in blustery conditions, Mortimer's experience and grit prevailed. She clinched victory 4-6, 6-4, 7-5, falling to her knees in a moment of pure elation that is etched into Wimbledon's rich history.
Her victory was a national event, celebrated across the country. It broke a 24-year drought for British women at their home championship and established her as a national hero. That same year, she reached the world No. 1 ranking, a just reward for a player who had dominated the sport. Key highlights of her legendary career include:
- Wimbledon Champion (1961)
- French Open Champion (1958)
- Australian Open Champion (1955)
- Reached World No. 1 Ranking (1961)
- Helped lead Great Britain to the Wightman Cup
A Lasting Partnership With John Barrett
Away from the singles court, Angela found a lasting doubles partner in fellow tennis player John Barrett, whom she married in 1961, shortly after her Wimbledon triumph. The union created one of tennis's most celebrated and enduring partnerships. John, a former British Davis Cup player, esteemed commentator, and editor of the World of Tennis yearbooks, was her steadfast supporter and husband for over six decades.
Together, Angela Mortimer-Barrett and John Barrett became a permanent fixture in the tennis world, respected for their wisdom, grace, and deep love for the game. They were a team in every sense, often seen together at major tournaments where John commentated. Their partnership was a beautiful blend of mutual respect and shared passion, a true love story that began on the courts and flourished for a lifetime.
Legacy of a Quiet Pioneer
Following her retirement from the sport, Mortimer-Barrett remained a respected and beloved figure. She was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1985 for her services to tennis. Her story of triumph over adversity continues to resonate, serving as a powerful reminder that greatness is not defined by physical limitations but by the strength of one's spirit.
In a statement, the All England Club said, "Angela Mortimer-Barrett’s victory in 1961 remains one of the most cherished moments in the history of The Championships. She was a remarkable champion and a wonderful ambassador for our sport. Our sincere condolences are with John and her family."
She is survived by her devoted husband, John, their son, and the countless players and fans she inspired with her quiet dignity, ferocious determination, and unparalleled achievements. The passing of Angela Mortimer-Barrett marks the end of an era, but her legacy as a Wimbledon champion and a true pioneer of British tennis will forever remain alive.