Winners of the 2025/26 T&RA Awards Announced
This year’s T&RA Annual Dinner and Awards ceremony celebrated the outstanding achievements of the 2025/26 season in both Real Tennis and Rackets. The evening brought members together to recognise the players who have excelled in their respective sports over the past year, with a Champagne reception followed by dinner in the President’s Room at The Queen’s Club.
The evening’s guest speaker was Theo Fennell, the renowned jewellery and silverware designer, successful author and accomplished after-dinner speaker. A keen sportsman who has played both Real Tennis and Rackets, Theo entertained guests with a thoroughly enjoyable speech. The T&RA would like to thank him for joining us and contributing to such a memorable evening.
REAL TENNIS AWARDS
Robert Shenkman was once again awarded the Baerlein Award for Best Performance by an Amateur, continuing his remarkable run in this category. A holder of the MCC Gold Racquet, British Amateur Singles and Doubles winner, winning Bathurst Cup captain and French Open doubles finalist, Rob has enjoyed another exceptional season. This marks his fourth consecutive Baerlein Award, making him only the third player to achieve this feat, following in the footsteps of Angus and Snow.
The Warburg Salver for Best Performance by a Professional went to Vaughan Hamilton following an outstanding season. Shortlisted alongside Claire Fahey, who had won the award for the previous four years, and Nino Merola and Bryn Sayers of The Queen’s Club, Vaughan emerged as the winner thanks to an impressive collection of results. These included the British Open Doubles title, the inaugural Ivan Ronaldson Trophy, the US Pro Satellite, the Jesmond Dene Cup and the Category A Open, as well as reaching the final of an IRTPA Satellite.
The Greenwood Trophy for Most Improved Player was awarded to Josh King, Head Professional at Leamington Tennis Court Club. A number of promising players were considered, including junior players Lara Abraham and Zoe Neville, both of whom improved their handicaps by 30 points or more, alongside Jack Morgan, Josh Pike and Katherine Carney. Ultimately, Josh King was recognised as the outstanding improver among players with a handicap below 20.
RACKETS AWARDS
James Medlow received the Latham Award for Best Performance by a Professional, in recognition of his performances throughout the season, particularly his strong showing in Manchester.
The Negretti Cup for Best Performance by an Amateur was awarded to Alex Duncliffe-Vines following a landmark achievement: winning his first British Open Singles title. Alex defeated Richard Owen in a six-game final to secure the championship.
The Renny Trophy for Most Improved Player went to Oli Cooke in recognition of his continued progress throughout the season, highlighted by his victory in Manchester.
Claire Fahey was awarded the Lillibet Bowl for Best Performance by a Woman after winning the Rackets World Singles Championship at Queen’s in May. This historic victory made Claire the first player in more than a century to hold the Real Tennis and Rackets World Singles titles simultaneously, underlining her extraordinary standing in both sports.
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
The Maltby Salver for Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Josh Farrall in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the development of Real Tennis, particularly through his work supporting young players. As founder of the Dedanists’ Society and a founding member of the Dedanists’ Foundation, Josh has played a pivotal role in developing the British Real Tennis Academy and expanding opportunities for juniors through coaching, competitions and club development. His dedication has helped nurture generations of talented players and strengthen the future of the sport.
The recipients of the T&RA Awards are selected by the Board and the respective Games Committees, drawing on their extensive knowledge of the Real Tennis and Rackets communities.
