Alan Mills, Wimbledon’s Esteemed ‘Rain Man,’ Passes Away at 88
Alan Ronald Mills, known as Wimbledon’s ‘Rain Man,’ has passed away at the age of 88, leaving an indelible mark on the tennis world. Mills held the esteemed position of Wimbledon’s Referee for a record-breaking 23 years until 2005, making him a revered figure in the sports community.
A Remarkable Legacy
Mills’s journey with Wimbledon began as an Assistant Referee under Fred Hoyles from 1977 to 1982. He then succeeded Hoyles, stepping into the shoes of his mentor. Mills’s love for tennis remained unwavering throughout his career. Even after his tenure at Wimbledon, he continued to referee at ATP, WTA, and ATP Champions Tour events until 2015, maintaining his influence and presence on the court.
Character and Fairness: The Hallmarks of Mills’s Reign
Mills was widely respected for his character and fairness. Regardless of a player’s rank or stature, he treated everyone equally. His ability to address issues swiftly and decisively earned him admiration from players and officials alike. Throughout his tenure, he showcased a steady hand and an unbiased perspective, principles that he carried from his early days as a player to his final moments as a referee.
Celebrating a Life Immersed in Tennis
Mills’s career highlights paint a vivid picture of his dedication to tennis. Starting as a top junior player from Lancashire, he worked his way up the ranks, winning the Royal Air Force Tennis Championship and representing Great Britain in the Davis Cup. He even competed in Wimbledon, achieving the remarkable feat of being the first Englishman to defeat Rod Laver in 1961. After retiring as a player, Mills transitioned into coaching, sharing his wisdom and experience in the United States and at the All England Club. His autobiography, ‘Lifting the Covers,’ encapsulated his life and career.
In recognition of his immense contributions to tennis, Mills was honored with an OBE in 1996 and a CBE in 2006. He is survived by his wife, Jill Rook, a former international table tennis player, and their two children, Barry and Penny. Mills, born on 6th November 1935, peacefully passed away on 18th January 2024, marking the end of an era in tennis.
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