Billie Jean King pays tribute to Paul Hutchins
Billie Jean King has joined leading figures in the tennis world in paying tribute to Paul Hutchins, who died aged 73 on Wednesday following a battle with Motor Neurone Disease.
Hutchins was a long-time servant of British tennis, fulfilling roles as diverse as player, Davis Cup captain, coach, commentator and administrator. He was also a long-time tournament director of the Nottingham championships in England.
In response to the news, King tweeted: “Paul Hutchins was a great champion, both on and off the court. He had a lifelong love of the game, and the tennis community will never forget him. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
Paul Hutchins was a great champion, both on and off the court. He had a lifelong love of the game, and the tennis community will never forget him. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. https://t.co/U5jiRBWPck
— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) March 15, 2019
Former WTA World No.5 and British No.1 Jo Durie also passed on her condolences to the family of a man who reached the third round at both the Australian and US Open in 1968 before being forced to retire two years later due to injury.
“Sad news about Paul Hutchins who was always so involved in British tennis bringing his enthusiasm wherever he went. A true gent & the whole tennis family will miss him. Thoughts to his lovely family at this sad time,” she said.
Sad news about Paul Hutchins who was always so involved in British tennis bringing his enthusiasm wherever he went. A true gent & the whole tennis family will miss him. Thoughts to his lovely family at this sad time.
— Jo Durie (@Jodurie) March 14, 2019
“Paul Hutchins, your kindness, passion for our sport, and friendship will never be forgotten. RIP. We all love you,” added WTA World No.46 Alison Riske.
Paul Hutchins, your kindness, passion for our sport, and friendship will never be forgotten. RIP. We all love you💞
— Alison Riske (@Riske4rewards) March 14, 2019
absolutely devistated and heartbroken. Paul Hutchins was a kind soul that will never be forgotten 🙏🏼 https://t.co/VuMXAkvRtz
— Irina Falconi (@IrinaFalconi) March 14, 2019
The LTA is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Paul Hutchins MBE.
Paul made a remarkable contribution to our sport and was a true hero of tennis in Britain. Our thoughts are with his family and all those who were fortunate enough to know him. https://t.co/31xBPXjkNo pic.twitter.com/rT31UlDRiY— British Tennis (@BritishTennis) March 14, 2019
The AELTC is deeply saddened to hear of Paul Hutchins' passing and send our condolences to his family and friends.
He will be greatly missed and forever in our thoughts. pic.twitter.com/KPWPmPG8pY— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) March 14, 2019