British doubles superstar Joe Salisbury has been named the LTA Doubles Player of the Year after yet another trophy-laden year at the pinnacle of tennis.
At the annual LTA Tennis Awards, presented by Lexus, Salisbury was recognised following a stellar 2023, which most notably saw him lift his fourth US Open title alongside Rajeev Ram.
It was a feat that allowed him to supersede Jamie Murray and Roger Taylor as Britain’s most successful doubles player ever.
With his eyes firmly on glory at Wimbledon – a competition he is yet to win – his mum Carolyn has given an insight into Salisbury’s journey thus far.
“It’s been a long journey, many bumps in the road, and I think it’s those bumps in the road that make you better and more resilient,” she said, speaking at the awards ceremony at the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton.
“I suppose it’s what every little one dreams of to just play in a Slam, let alone to win multiple Slams. It is a dream come true.”
Reflecting on Salisbury’s year, Carolyn revealed that her son had to go through fitness woes before finding his Grand Slam-winning feet.
“The first half of the year was difficult, plagued with injuries, struggling to be consistently fit,” she added.
“But the second half of the year was incredible. Winning three US Opens was unbelievable and then the pinnacle at the end of the year was winning ATP World Tour Finals for a second time.
“Well done him and well done his partner who is wonderful. He’s got a fantastic support team, hugely grateful to all of them.”
While recognising Britain’s top tennis talent at the LTA Awards, there was also a batch of elated winners who had been selected from more than 2,200 nominations across 15 different categories, acknowledged for their outstanding contribution to tennis in 2023.
First launched in 2015 with the help of former LTA president Cathie Sabin OBE, the LTA Awards recognise the vital work of volunteers, coaches and officials, as well as players, who dedicate their precious time and energy to the continual development and growth of the sport.
Over the past nine years, the awards have illustrated the depth of service and talent within the tennis community and serve as an inspiration to others to get involved in the game.
Leon Smith, Great Britain Davis Cup Team Captain, and LTA Head of Men’s Tennis, said: “It’s been a pleasure to have all the winners and runners-up come together at the National Tennis Centre in celebration of their dedication to the game.
‘’Listening during the awards and finding out more about the impact all our finalists have made to tennis, is just so inspirational. It’s also very humbling to hear about the incredible work they have been doing in clubs, venues, parks, schools, and communities up and down the country.
“We are delighted to be able to acknowledge their amazing contributions. I look forward to following what they go on to do next year. Congratulations to all our amazing finalists.”
The annual LTA Awards, presented by Lexus.
