PLAYER PROFILE: CHRIS LEWIS
Chris Lewis, a distinguished former professional tennis player from New Zealand, made a significant mark in tennis history with his exceptional skills and dedication. Best known for his impressive run to the 1983 Wimbledon final, Lewis' career is a testament to his athletic prowess and determination.
Beyond his playing days, he has continued influencing the sport through his successful coaching career, shaping future champions. His journey from a top-ranked junior to a celebrated professional and esteemed coach underscores his lasting legacy in tennis. We’re proud to have him as an ambassador at Golden Age of Tennis; learn more about his impressive career.
PLAYER PROFILE
EARLY CAREER: FROM JUNIOR STAR TO PROFESSIONAL ACE
Chris Lewis was born in the vibrant city of Auckland, New Zealand, where he grew up alongside his brothers David and Mark, who also made their marks in tennis. Lewis's talent was evident from a young age, and in 1975, he was ranked the No. 1 junior player in the world. His junior career was highlighted by winning the Wimbledon Boys’ Singles title and reaching the US Open Boys’ Singles final.
WIMBLEDON GLORY: THE PINNACLE OF A STELLAR CAREER
The defining moment of Chris Lewis's career came in 1983 when he made an electrifying run to the Wimbledon final as the world number 91. This incredible achievement made him the first New Zealander to reach the Wimbledon final since Anthony Wilding in 1913.
Although he faced a formidable opponent in John McEnroe, losing in straight sets (2-6, 2-6, 2-6), Lewis's journey to the final included a nail-biting five-set semi-final victory over Kevin Curran.
Notably, Lewis was one of the early adopters of the oversized racket, using a Prince original graphite racket during his Wimbledon run. This technical revolution in tennis equipment was a game-changer, with rackets transitioning from a 63-square-inch head size to 110. For many tennis players, it was like learning to play all over again as players took time to get used to the transition.
LIFE AFTER PLAYING: SHAPING FUTURE CHAMPIONS
After retiring from professional play, Lewis dedicated himself to coaching, where he has developed and mentored young talents who have gone on to win prestigious junior events, including junior Grand Slam titles.
Lewis has also coached at the highest levels of men’s professional tennis, including working with Carl-Uwe Steeb, a former World No. 14, and Ivan Lendl, a former World No. 1.
Today, Chris Lewis runs one of the USA’s most successful high-performance junior tennis academies. Based at the Orange County Great Park in Irvine, California, the academy is a hub for nurturing the next generation of tennis stars.
