Clay Iles
English tennis player and coach
Clay Iles, a distinguished English tennis player and highly respected coach, passed away at the age of 83, with his death announced on February 5, 2026. Based in Eastbourne, United Kingdom, Iles dedicated his life to the sport, leaving an indelible mark on British tennis through his playing career, extensive coaching, and contributions as a sports writer and umpire. His passing is a significant loss to the tennis community he served for over six decades.
As a player, Iles competed in the prestigious Wimbledon Championships twelve times between 1962 and 1974, reaching the second round in men's singles in both 1966 and 1968. He secured six career singles titles, including the North of England Hard Court Championships in 1964 and the Cannes Carlton International in the same year. Notably, he participated in the first-ever "Open Era" singles match at the British Hard Court Championships in Bournemouth in 1968, facing tennis legend Pancho Gonzales.
Following his retirement from competitive play in 1975, Iles transitioned into coaching, where he truly excelled and became one of the country's most successful mentors. He was instrumental in developing numerous British junior champions, including future Federation Cup team members Clare Wood, Sara Gomer, and Julie Salmon. His influence extended to a national level, serving as a national trainer for leading under-12 players, a group that notably included a young Tim Henman for two years.
Beyond the court, Clay Iles shared his deep knowledge and passion for tennis through sports writing, contributing features to the Croydon Advertiser, World Tennis, and Lawn Tennis and the Tennis Pictorial International. He also served as a tennis umpire, further demonstrating his multifaceted commitment to the integrity and growth of the sport. His comprehensive involvement in tennis, from playing to coaching, writing, and officiating, underscored a profound dedication that inspired many.
Clay Iles will be remembered not only for his achievements as a player and coach but also for his unwavering dedication to nurturing talent and promoting tennis across all levels. His legacy lives on through the many players he guided and the lasting impact he had on the British tennis landscape. The tennis world mourns the loss of a true stalwart whose passion for the game was evident in every aspect of his remarkable career.