author
A familiar voice in British tennis for decades, this writer brought the sport to life as both a player and a commentator. His books reflect a deep, practical knowledge of the game and its history.
John Barrett was a British tennis player, broadcaster, and author best known for becoming one of the most recognizable voices of Wimbledon on the BBC. After competing as a player, he moved into journalism and commentary, where he built a long career explaining the sport with clarity and warmth.
He also wrote and edited tennis books, including the well-known World of Tennis annuals, helping generations of readers follow the game’s major events and players. His contribution to tennis writing and broadcasting was widely recognized, including induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2014.
Barrett’s work stands out for making tennis feel both accessible and richly storied, combining firsthand experience with a clear love of the sport.