Cameron Norrie - From Merton Road to Wimbledon

This year at Wimbledon, one of the biggest names making waves on Centre Court had a very familiar connection to our community — Cameron Norrie, who grew up right here in Auckland, learning his craft on the same courts many of you now train on at Merton Road, under the guidance of none other than Coach James Greenhalgh.

🎾 From Local Kid to World Star

Before he was playing in front of thousands at Wimbledon, Cam was just a young left-hander learning the basics: how to rally, how to move his feet, and how to compete — just like our juniors do every week.

From the age of 11 to 18, he spent his early years training as part of the Tennis Auckland Regional Development Squad, hitting balls on the same Merton Road courts, learning from James, that so many of you now know and work with.

His name is now proceeded by the Great Britain flag, but there’s no doubt in our hearts — Cameron Norrie is one of our own.

💪 Wimbledon 2025: A Heroic Run

At this year’s Wimbledon, Cam fought his way into the quarter-finals, surviving a five-set thriller in the fourth round against Chile’s Nicolás Jarry. He hit strong serves, chased every ball, and never gave up — just like we encourage our players to do on court.

That win made him the last Brit standing in the tournament, and he earned the right to play on the most famous court in the world — Wimbledon’s Centre Court — in front of millions of fans.

🏁 The Big Match

In the quarter-final, Cam faced the two-time defending champion and world number two, Carlos Alcaraz. It was a tough match, and while Cam didn’t get the win, he gave it everything and showed what it means to compete with heart.

He walked off to a standing ovation — because people admire players who fight, stay positive, and play fair. That’s the spirit we want in all our kids here at Tennis Life.

🌱 A Role Model for Our Players

Cam’s story is so special to us because it shows that you don’t have to be developed in a big tennis country to make it. You just need a love of the game, great coaching, and the courage to keep showing up and working hard, then who knows, you may end up as high as number 8 in the world like Cam.

He trained where you train. He played where you play. He listened to Coach James, just like many of you do now.

So whether you’re 7, 12, or 17 — remember this:

The next Cameron Norrie could be YOU.

🗣 A word from Cam just for us!

"Hey guys, always believe in yourself, even on the tough days, respect your coaches and your teammates, never give up — fight for every point, be humble in victory, and gracious in defeat, and most of all — enjoy the game!"

🙌 Keep the Dream Alive

We’re so proud of Cam and the journey he’s taken — from Merton Road to the top of the tennis world. And we’re just as proud of all of you, turning up each week, giving your best, and growing on and off the court.

Whether you’re playing red ball on Court 1 or getting ready to take court for a tournament on Court 4 — keep chasing your goals, and who knows where tennis might take you.

Tennis Life — It's more than just a game. It's a way of life.