John Lumley Wins Champions Trophy: ‘It’s Incredibly Special’
John Lumley captured his second Champions Trophy title at Hampton Court Palace presented by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward.
The Royal Tennis Court is proud to announce that John Lumley has won the 2025 Real Tennis Champions Trophy, defeating 2024 champion Nick Howell in straight sets in Sunday’s final at Hampton Court Palace. This marks Lumley’s second Champions Trophy title, having previously triumphed in 2023. HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, new Patron of the Royal Tennis Court and an accomplished player, watched the match and went on to present the prizes along with main sponsor Mitsubishi Electric Europe.
The final, played before a capacity crowd in the historic surroundings of the Royal Tennis Court, saw Lumley deliver a commanding performance with a 6/2 6/0 victory over Howell, who was seeking back-to-back titles. Lumley’s precision, tactical awareness, and court coverage proved decisive throughout the match. The scores do not reflect the extremely hard fought and tight match. Click here for highlights.
Path to the Title
The 2025 edition of the Champions Trophy maintained its hallmark format, with seven of the world’s top 10 players entering alongside a further seven top players—allowing for a thrilling and unpredictable draw. Lumley, seeded 1, made full use of the format, navigating a competitive field to secure his place in the final.
Nick Howell, entering as the second seed and defending champion, also advanced through after a strong showing in the early rounds, setting the stage for a high-calibre final between two of the sport’s top contenders.
“Winning the Champions Trophy for a second time, especially at Hampton Court, is incredibly special,” said John. “Nick is a fierce competitor—I knew I had to be at my very best. It’s a privilege to play at a venue so steeped in the history of our game.”
“We witnessed some of the finest Real Tennis of the season,” said Nick Wood, Head Professional at the Royal Tennis Court. “John’s performance today was superb—disciplined, composed, and tactically brilliant.”
General Manager, Corporate Communications & Sustainability, Mitsubishi Electric Europe B.V., Hans-Joerg Hinkel said, “The Champions Trophy continues to showcase the very best of world-class Real Tennis, delivering thrilling competition at the highest level year after year. Mitsubishi Electric is proud to support this prestigious tournament and celebrate the incredible talent it brings together. Congratulations to all the players, and especially to the finalists for an exciting match that exemplified the spirit of the game.”
Said Chair, RTC, Doug Sheperdigian, ”It was excellent to have most of the seats filled with spectators. This is so important because this tournament is a rare opportunity for our Real Tennis players to see the best in action. And it means a lot to the professionals to have witnesses to their fabulous skills, especially in the case of the finalists when the audience included our patron!”
The Champions Trophy, presented by Mitsubishi Electric Europe, supported by Cadcorp and Le Petit Nantais Restaurant… continues to serve as one of Real Tennis’s premier tournaments, offering world-class play and a unique format that ensures both intensity and opportunity throughout the draw. Hosted at one of the world’s oldest and most storied courts, celebrating its 400th anniversary, the event showcases the heritage and excellence of the sport.
The 2025 edition also included a Ladies’ Exhibition Match in partnerships with the LRTA (Ladies Real Tennis Association) watched by many of the world’s former and future top female players.
A Royal Garden Reception after the Finals attended by sponsors, supporters, volunteers, members, players, and invited guests, further strengthened the community and culture surrounding the game.
