John Beddington, a prominent figure in the tennis world for over fifty years, passed away last week at the age of 83 after a battle with cancer. His extensive career included significant contributions as a tournament director, with a particular legacy tied to the event now known as the Nitto ATP Finals.
Beddington served as Executive Vice President of Tennis Canada from 1979 to 1995, a period during which he was instrumental in elevating the standards of Canadian tennis. He played a key role in establishing the Masters Tennis event at Royal Albert Hall in 1997 and was pivotal in securing the sponsorship deal with Barclays that moved the ATP World Tour Finals to London.
Having been a full member of the All England Club for more than five decades, Beddington was respected not only for his administrative skills but also as a friend to tennis journalists. Tumaini Carayol, the current Chairman of the British Tennis Journalists’ Association (BTJA), reflected on Beddington’s dedication to fostering relationships with journalists and supporting young talent in the sport.
Throughout his life, Beddington was a champion for charitable causes, having raised close to £2 million for various initiatives, including his work with ‘Give It Your Max,’ which supported underprivileged children in the UK. The organization paid tribute to his legacy, stating that while his presence will be missed, his positive impact on tennis and the lives of many will endure.
Beddington’s early involvement with tennis included his role as Tournament Director of the Commercial Union Grand Prix Masters from 1972 to 1976, and later overseeing what is now branded as the National Bank Open Presented by Rogers. His influence helped transform this event into an ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 tournament, drawing some of the biggest names in tennis over the years.
Ivan Lendl, a former World No. 1 and six-time champion of the Canadian Open, praised Beddington as a great individual with a sharp sense of humor and an ability to connect with players. Valerie Tetreault, the current Tournament Director for the National Bank Open, emphasized Beddington’s trailblazing efforts in growing Canadian tennis, marking his influence as vital to the tournament’s international acclaim.
Under his guidance, Tennis Canada experienced considerable growth, expanding its workforce and enhancing its national team development following his strategic focus on technical advancements in the sport. Beddington’s commitment to fostering tennis in Canada left a lasting legacy.
Colleagues and friends remembered him for his welcoming nature and ability to cultivate ties within the tennis community. Richard Evans, a seasoned tennis writer, noted Beddington’s contributions extended beyond tennis into squash and his charitable endeavors, underscoring his tireless dedication to cultivating sports.
In recognition of his achievements, Beddington was inducted into the Canadian Tennis Hall of Fame in 2006 and received the Golden Achievement Award from the International Tennis Hall of Fame and the International Tennis Federation during Wimbledon in 2023.
Educated at prestigious institutions including Eton College, the Goethe Institute, and the College of Law, Beddington was recognized as a leading authority in sports management, overseeing nearly 200 international tournaments throughout his career. His extensive contributions included writing “Play Better Squash,” which became a best-seller and remains influential in the sport.
Beddington is survived by his wife, Roseann Madden Beddington, and his two sons, David and James. His profound impact on tennis, both in Canada and globally, ensures that his contributions will be cherished and remembered for generations to come.
