Overview
Legendary tennis player Norman Brookes was the first non-British competitor to win the All England Championships at Wimbledon in 1907, with a second incredible victory seven years later at the age of 36.
Born in the Melbourne suburb of St Kilda on 14 November 1877, this sporting biography charts not only Norman Brookes’ life but also the evolution of tennis – including a fascinating glimpse into Edwardian-era Wimbledon and a look at key international players of the time. From his involvement in the family paper mill business and marriage to Mabel Emmerton – later proclaimed the “principal society doyenne” of Melbourne—in 1910, to early success on Australian courts and Wimbledon victories, The Wizard offers an unparalleled insight into the life and times of one of our greatest sporting heroes.
Even when he laid down his racket, Brookes’ presidency of the Lawn Tennis Association of Australia (1926-1955) was not without media interest, due to controversies and disputes with fellow tennis administrators, presented through the minute books of the LTAA Council.
About the author
Richard Naughton
Richard Naughton is a Melbourne-based legal academic and writer. Currently a visiting lecturer in the Monash law faculty and undertaking research into Australia’s collective bargaining laws, he is co-author of the leading textbook, Australian Labour Law – Text, Cases and Commentary. Richard’s love of tennis and the history of the game saw him contribute to Australian Tennis magazine for many years.
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