Award for Court ahead of Australian Open

Australian tennis legend Margaret Court has been honoured in the Australia Day honours list, being made a Companion in the General Division of the Order of Australia (AC).

Court’s achievements in the sport include being the first woman during tennis’ Open era to complete a singles grand slam, achieved by winning all four major tournaments – the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open – in a calendar year and winning a record number of singles titles, record that stands today.

Court has caused controversy in some circles for her religious beliefs – she has been a pastor at a Pentecostal church in Perth for 25 years ago and has drawn criticism for her opposition to gay marriage.

The award, according to the independent Council of the Order of Australia, is for service as a player and as a mentor to young sportspeople.

Peter Rowe

Recent Posts

Nadal takes revenge with Madrid grudge win

Rafael Nadal took a huge step in his injury comeback scenario as the clay court icon…

4 hours ago

Rublev reverses his spring loss streak

Andrey Rublev brought a halt to a painful loss streak lasting for nearly two months…

1 day ago

Aggressive Alcaraz motors in Madrid

Carlos Alcaraz began his delayed clay season on Friday after a month of arm injury…

1 day ago

Unsure Nadal puts RG commitment on ice

Rafael Nadal heads into his weekend clash at the Madrid Masters plagued by doubts over…

1 day ago

Swiatek complains about a lack of player power

Iga Swiatek remains perplexed about the huge lack of influence top players have on WTA…

1 day ago

Gauff guts opponent in Madrid massacre

Coco Gauff powered to the first double bagel of her career on Thursday, opening play…

2 days ago