John Curry, the former chairman of the prestigious All England Club who led the Wimbledon tennis tournament through a period of significant expansion during the 1990s, has passed away at the age of 86. The All England Club announced his death on Saturday, but no cause of death was disclosed.
Curry’s legacy at Wimbledon is deeply intertwined with the club’s evolution and its rise to global prominence. During his tenure as chairman from 1989 to 1999, he spearheaded a strategic vision that saw the construction of the new No. 1 Court in 1997, a pivotal project that further solidified Wimbledon’s position as the world’s premier tennis tournament. This ambitious expansion plan, meticulously crafted and implemented under Curry’s leadership, not only enhanced the tournament’s infrastructure but also ensured its continued success on the international stage.
In a statement released on the All England Club’s website, the club highlighted Curry’s commitment to maintaining Wimbledon’s cherished traditions while driving its progress. They described him as a chairman who “in the best traditions of Wimbledon, took the club forward whilst maintaining everything that is special about the club and The Championships.”
Curry’s impact on Wimbledon wasn’t limited to the physical development of the grounds. He also made a significant, though controversial, decision to ban non-royal children from the Royal Box on Centre Court, a move that reportedly caused displeasure among certain members of the royal family, including the Duchess of Kent, whose husband served as the long-time president of the All England Club.
Debbie Jevans, the current chair of the All England Club, paid tribute to Curry’s leadership, praising his “assured and astute” stewardship of the club during a period of remarkable growth and success. She acknowledged his ability to navigate the challenges of modernization while preserving the tournament’s unique character and tradition.
John Curry is survived by his wife, Anne, and their three sons and a daughter. His passing marks the end of an era for Wimbledon, and his contributions to the tournament’s legacy will be remembered for generations to come.