Cameron Norrie is a household name.
Whether you know him as the 2022 Wimbledon Men’s semi-finalist or for his five ATP career tour titles, the Johannesburg-born pro has had an esteemed career in his tender 27 years.
Norrie is associated with a never-say-die attitude on court and admired for his crushing flat doubled handed backhand that has made him a force to be reckoned with and a major contender on the tennis world stage.
The lefty has already beaten the likes of world number 1 Carlos Alcaraz on the Spaniard’s favoured clay surface this year and boasts victories over three current Top 10 players.
Just before he sets his sights on SW19’s hallowed turf in front of a hyped-up home crowd, Norrie takes time out of his jam-packed training schedule to chat exclusively to ES.
The sky and beyond is truly the limit, so maybe Wimbledon’s roof should stay open when Norrie walks out onto the court.
What are you up to at the moment?
I’m at Wigmore Sports in London, getting my racket restrung. My preparation for Wimbledon has been going well. I’ve been practising and getting used to the grass courts and I’m looking forward to getting going.
You had a great run at Wimbledon in 2022. How are you feeling about your chances this year?
I’m feeling good, it’s been a bit of a disappointing clay season for me, but I’ve had a good block on the grass so far and a good few matches at Queen’s.
Who or what inspired you to play tennis?
I used to play tennis in the driveway with my parents when I was young, taking it step by step and watching a lot of Federer, Nadal as well as Verdasco. When I was a little older, I liked Andy Murray when he was world number one and winning everything.
What are your training essentials?
My Babolat rackets, grass shoes, grips and you have to come with right mindset, otherwise you have no chance.
How do you celebrate after match?
I have the same routine, go on the bike for a little bit, talk with my coach and get some food. Pasta is my favourite after a match and then get out of there. No beers though!
Why did you decide on Babolat as your racket of choice?
I’ve been using the same racket - Babolat’s Pure Strike - since I was about 14 years old. It’s a great racket with great balance and I’ve been using it for so long. I keep improving with it, so, I’m not going to switch. It’s got me a lot wins. I’m very loyal to it. It’s got great control.
What is the one item you can’t live without?
Good question! I’d say it’s my headphones. I listen to a lot of music and audiobooks.
What are your travel must-haves?
I travel with a lot of stuff. Three suitcases with supplements, casual clothes and all my tennis equipment. So, many things! My whole life is travelling around with me.
What do you love about London?
I love the people and when the weather is good, it’s the best city in the world. There are couple of coffee shops and restaurants. London is pretty decent for coffee. My coffee of choice is a Flat White.
If you were to do well at Wimbledon, would you celebrate it by getting a London-inspired tattoo?
I wouldn’t get a tattoo. I’m done for now! Strawberries and cream? [he jokes] No more!
How do you relax and unwind in your spare time?
Listen to some audiobooks, go for a walk. I’m usually watching every kind of sport. I’m looking forward to the Rugby World Cup, it’s going to be very interesting to see who wins this year.
Describe your on and off court style and what are your wardrobe staples?
I don’t get the chance to wear too much non-tennis clothes. My favourite brand in Burberry. I don’t really wear too many logo brands, just a plain black or white top and trousers.
If you could play against any player past or present, who would it be and why?
I’d like to play against Tim Henman, both in our prime. It would be a good match. He’s one of the best volleyers and would be interesting for the crowd to watch. There would be a lot of good points and a tough match up. I like to pass, and he likes to come to net. He’d be a decent doubles partner. I’ll take him!
Any rising Brit players on your radar?
There are some great players I really like seeing. Jack Draper is at such a good level and doing so well – it’s not a surprise to me. He is going to miss this Wimbledon, which is really tough for him. I enjoy practising and playing with him. My dark horse for Wimbledon is Arthur Fery.
What are your career goals over the next five years?
Keep playing, enjoy it and improve day after day.
What advice would you give to budding tennis players?
Stay patient. You need a good combination of practice on court, and you have to play matches. If you not playing competitively, you’ll never know if you are improving or not. Tennis is a sport where you know exactly where you sit at each level. You either beat someone or lose. It’s nice to know exactly where you are.
Quick Fire Round!
- Fave film? Shawshank Redemption
- Fave TV series? Prison Break
- Fave music/artist? Tourist
- Fave food? Thai
