Obituary: Barry Newcombe
The ITF was saddened to learn of the passing of esteemed journalist Barry Newcombe.
A titan of the industry, Newcombe was hugely revered throughout the sporting world and the volume of tributes since his passing reflects the level of respect he commanded and the fondness with which he will be remembered.
Indeed, his was a stellar and distinguished career which spanned more than half a century, beginning in 1957 when he landed his first role at the Northampton Chronicle and Echo.
The Sports Journalists’ Association is deeply sad to learn of the passing of Barry Newcombe, who was SJA chair from 2006 to 2013 - a record tenure in years served. His distinguished career in the industry began back in 1958.
— Sports Journalists (@SportSJA) October 7, 2022
Our sympathies go out to Barry’s family and friends. pic.twitter.com/w1hDNeKBgw
He would later cover rugby union, boxing and tennis for the Evening Standard, Sunday Express and Sunday Times, while he was chair of the Sports Journalists’ Association from 2006-2013 – a record tenure in years served.
In 2015, Newks – to which he was often referred – was honoured by the All England Lawn Tennis Club at Wimbledon after completing a rousing half century of 50 years covering The Championships.
His first year at Wimbledon was in 1965 when he was the Evening Standard’s tennis correspondent, and he continued covering the event with pride and distinction for decades to come. He will be sorely missed.
The thoughts of everyone at the ITF are with Barry’s family and friends at this sad time.