Tennis Man

Category: Wimbledon

  • Wimbledon’s Most Expensive House

    The Old Rectory at 82-84 Church Road in Wimbledon Village is a truly remarkable property with a rich and fascinating history. Here’s a glimpse into its past:

    • Tudor Origins: The house dates back to the early 16th century, making it one of the oldest surviving buildings in Wimbledon. It was originally built as a parsonage for the Church of St. Mary.  
    • Royal Connections: Legend has it that King Henry VIII himself visited the property in 1546 while on a tour of his Surrey palaces. It’s said he even had a bed installed for him in the grand entrance hall as he was too unwell to climb the stairs.  
    • Notable Residents: Over the centuries, The Old Rectory has been home to a variety of prominent figures. This includes Sir William Cecil, advisor to Queen Elizabeth I, who used it as a country retreat in the 16th century.  
    • Architectural Significance: The house is a Grade II* listed building, recognised for its historical and architectural importance. It showcases the architectural styles of different periods, reflecting its long and varied history.  
    • From Grandeur to Decline and Back: The Old Rectory has experienced periods of both grandeur and decline throughout its existence. It was once a much larger building with extensive grounds, but parts were demolished over time. However, it has been lovingly restored by its owners, preserving its historical features while incorporating modern amenities.  
    • Modern-Day Luxury: Today, The Old Rectory is a luxurious private residence, offering a unique blend of historical charm and contemporary living. It has been featured in various publications and is considered one of the most prestigious properties in Wimbledon.

  • Who is Anna Kournikova?

    Successful player, reaching No. 8 in the world in singles and even achieving the No. 1 ranking in doubles. She won several Grand Slam titles in doubles, partnering with Martina Hingis.

    Her modelling career was quite high-profile, and she had several memorable moments that cemented her status as a style icon. Here are some of her most famous modelling moments:

    • Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue: In 2004, she graced the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, a major milestone for any model. This appearance broadened her appeal beyond the sports world and solidified her status as a sex symbol.
    • Magazine Covers: Throughout her career, she appeared on the covers of numerous high-profile magazines, including Vogue, Cosmopolitan, GQ, and Maxim. These covers showcased her versatility and fashion sense.  
    • Endorsements: Kournikova was a sought-after brand ambassador, endorsing major brands like Adidas, Yonex, and Omega. Her campaigns for these brands were widely seen and further enhanced her image.  
    • Red Carpet Appearances: Kournikova’s presence on red carpets was always highly anticipated. She consistently displayed a glamorous and sophisticated style, earning praise for her fashion choices.
    • Music Video Appearance: She famously appeared in Enrique Iglesias’ music video for “Escape,” which became a massive hit and further boosted her popularity.  

    It’s worth noting that Kournikova’s modeling career was closely intertwined with her tennis career. Her fame as a tennis star helped open doors in the modeling world, and her success as a model, in turn, increased her visibility and marketability as an athlete.

    While she may not have been a traditional runway model, her impact on the world of fashion and endorsements is undeniable. She was one of the first female athletes to successfully transition into the world of modelling and entertainment, paving the way for future generations of sportswomen.

  • Who is Carlos Alcaraz?

    Spanish professional tennis player who has made a significant impact on the sport. Born on 5 May 2003, in El Palmar, Murcia, Spain, Alcaraz turned professional in 2018 at the age of 15. He quickly rose through the ranks and has been ranked as high as world No. 1 in men’s singles by the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP).

    Alcaraz has won multiple ATP Tour-level singles titles, including four major titles and five Masters 1000 titles. He is known for his powerful and aggressive playing style, as well as his remarkable athleticism and mental toughness on the court. Some of his notable achievements include winning the US Open in 2022, Wimbledon in 2023 and 2024, and the French Open in 2024.

    Off the court, Alcaraz is coached by former world No. 1 Juan Carlos Ferrero and Samuel López. He has become a prominent figure in the tennis world and is considered one of the sport’s brightest young talents.