Henry Young (tennis player)
| Country (sports) | .svg.png){kind=small} Australia |
|---|---|
| Born | 26 September 1923 Glenelg, Australia |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | Australia United Kingdom |
| Branch | Royal Australian Air Force Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1942/43–19?? |
| Rank | Spitfire pilot |
| Battles / wars | World War II |
Henry Young (born 26 September 1923) is an Australian centenarian World War II veteran and tennis player, recognised as the world's oldest competitive tennis player.[1] He has competed internationally in the 90+ category at ITF Masters tournaments and has made exhibition appearances at the Australian Open.[2]
Early life
Young was born on 26 September 1923 in Glenelg, Australia.[3][4] He began playing tennis as a young man and continued to play regularly into his later years.
World War II service
During World War II, he served as a spitfire pilot with both British and Australian air forces.[4]
Tennis career
Masters competition
Young has competed in numerous senior-level tournaments in Australia and abroad. In October 2023, shortly after turning 100, he took part in the ITF Masters World Individual Championships in Mallorca, Spain, competing in the men's singles 90+ category.[5]
Australian Open exhibitions
In January 2023, Young appeared in an exhibition match dubbed the "Clash of the Centurions" in Rod Laver Arena during the Australian Open.[4] The match featured other veteran players and raised awareness of senior participation in sport.
Recognition
Young has been profiled by international media for his longevity and dedication to tennis.[1] He plays tennis three to four times a week and continues to travel for competitions in his second century of life.[6]
Personal life
Young resides in Adelaide, South Australia.[3] He was married to a woman called Madge for 72 years.[4]
References
- ^ a b Ingle, Sean (15 June 2025). "Henry Young: meet the 101-year-old tennis player still competing". The Guardian. Retrieved 15 August 2025.
- ^ "Tennis ace Henry enjoyed a 'glorious moment' debuting on centre court at the Australian Open. He's 99". ABC News. 3 February 2023. Retrieved 15 August 2025.
- ^ a b "Tennis star Henry Young has turned 100 and has no intention of slowing down soon". Adelaide Now. 26 September 2023. Retrieved 15 August 2025.
- ^ a b c d "Australian Open debut for 99yo tennis player Henry Young". ABC News. 3 February 2023. Retrieved 15 August 2025.
- ^ "Henry Young: the 100-year-old set to make tennis-playing history". ITF Tennis. International Tennis Federation. 23 October 2023. Retrieved 15 August 2025.
- ^ "Centenarian tennis player Henry Young stays active". ABC News. 2 July 2025. Retrieved 15 August 2025.