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Roger Taylor Tennis Career Recognised
Wed 22 Jan 2020 10:30
Roger Taylor, widely recognised as the most successful tennis player ever to come from Sheffield, had his career recognised in a ceremony in the city this week.
Taylor, aged 78, had a commemorative plaque unveiled at Graves Health and Sports Centre this week by the Sheffield Lord Mayor, Councillor Tony Downing. The ceremony was organised by Sheffield City Council, the LTA and Places Leisure to recognise Taylor's outstanding achievements in tennis.
Taylor learnt to play tennis in Weston Park in Sheffield with his Mum, before going on to the Amatuer Tour in 1960. He won his first title in 1963, going on to win 5 further titles during his career. He reached the semi-finals of Wimbledon in 1967, 1970 and again in 1973. In addition, he was a semi-finalist at the Australia Open in 1970 and also reached the quarter final at the French Open. He had notable victories over defending champion Rod Laver at Wimbledon in 1970 and over 17 year old Bjorn Borg in 1973. He also won back to back doubles titles at the US Open in 1971 and 1972.
He achieved a career high ATP world singles ranking of number 11, although he was ranked number 8 in 1970 before ATP rankings began.
Roger retired from playing in 1980 and went on to be Great Britain's Davis Cup captain from February 2000 until January 2004. He also captained the British Ladies Wightman Cup team, steering them to their last victory in the competition in 1978. He was awarded an MBE in the 1977 Silver Jubilee Birthday honours.
Taylor still plays on the ITF Seniors Tour and last year won the British Over 75's Clay Court doubles title.
Roger has remained a keen supporter of Sheffield Tennis. He returned to the city for the Davis Cup Trophy Tour event in 2016 and he’s also taken a strong interest in the parks tennis programme that has developed over the last 5 years.
Following the unveiling of the plaque, Taylor took part in an on court coaching session with some of the young players from the centre, passing on his experience from a lifetime in the sport.