PLAYER PROFILE

Wendy Turnbull

  • Age71
  • Born26 November 1952
  • Birth PlaceBrisbane, Queensland
  • LivesBoca Raton, Florida
  • Height164 cm
  • PlaysRight-handed
  • Playing StatusRetired
  • Australian Tennis Hall Of Fame2009

Doubles champion
French 1979
Wimbledon 1978
United States 1979, 1982

Mixed doubles champion
French 1979, 1982
Wimbledon 1983-84
United States 1980

Fed Cup
1977-88
Captain 1985-93

Wendy Turnbull turned pro in 1975 and was quickly nicknamed “Rabbit” by her peers, such was her speed around the court. In an illustrious career she made the final of every Grand Slam except Wimbledon. Turnbull’s consistency was exceptional, achieving a top 10 year-end ranking for eight consecutive years (1977-84) and a year-end top 20 ranking for 10 straight years (1977-86). She achieved her highest singles ranking of No.3 in January 1985. In doubles she paired with Kerry Reid to win the 1978 Wimbledon crown, with Betty Stove to win the 1979 US and French titles, and with Rosie Casals to win the 1982 US Open. She made another 11 major doubles finals, won five mixed doubles titles and teamed with Liz Smylie to win a bronze medal at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. Turnbull debuted in the Federation Cup in 1977 and played a record 45 ties, later serving as captain. In 1984 the Queenslander was awarded an OBE for services to tennis.

Wendy Turnbull in the news

Ash Barty charges into Australian Open 2022 semifinals
IN FORM: World No.1 Ash Barty at AO 2022. Picture: Getty Images
25 January, 2022

World No.1 Ash Barty has matched her best result at the Australian Open, advancing to the women's singles semifinals for the second time in her career.
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Ash Barty in elite company with Australian Open quarterfinal run
Ash Barty during her fourth-round win at Australian Open 2021. Picture: Tennis Australia
17 February, 2021

Ash Barty is creating history at Australian Open 2021 and reaffirming her status as one of Australia's best-performing players over the past four decades.
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Determined and grateful: Insight into a champion’s mindset
Ash Barty during her fourth-round win at Australian Open 2021. Picture: Tennis Australia
17 February, 2021

Australian world No.1s Ash Barty and Dylan Alcott headline the day 10 schedule at Australian Open 2021.
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Celebrating US Open anniversaries of Aussie champions
Margaret Court, Lleyton Hewitt, Sam Stosur and Ken Rosewall are all celebrating US Open anniversaries this year. Pictures: Getty Images
31 August, 2020

Several Australian champions - of both today and yesteryear - are celebrating significant anniversaries of US Open triumphs this year.
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