Former Wimbledon champion Angela Mortimer-Barrett has died at the age of 94.
Mortimer-Barrett defeated compatriot Christine Trueman to win the women's singles title in 1961, three years after losing her debut final to Althea Gibson.
During her career, the athlete won three Grand Slam singles titles, including the 1955 French Championships and the Australian Championships three years later.
In 1955, she added to her achievements by winning the doubles title at Wimbledon, partnering Ann Shilcock in the final against Shirley Bloomer and Pat Ward.
Early in her career, Mortimer-Barrett experienced hearing loss and also struggled with recurring illnesses.
In 1967, she was awarded the title of Member of the Order of the British Empire, and in the same year she became the wife of former Great Britain player and famous commentator John Barrett.
All England Club Chair Deborah Jevans commented: “We are deeply saddened by the death of Angela Mortimer-Barrett OBE, the oldest reigning Wimbledon women’s singles champion, aged 94.
“Angela will be remembered for her tenacity and outstanding discipline that allowed her to overcome difficult obstacles on her way to the pinnacle of tennis, where she won three singles and one doubles Grand Slam title.
“On behalf of all members of the All England Club, I express my sincere condolences to her husband John, children Michael and Sarah Jane, grandchildren, family and friends.”
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
