Hutchins Preparing To Return To The Tour

Written by: Bob Larson Tennis on 25th November 2013

Hutchins Preparing To Return To The Tour

epa01495147 Great Britain's Ross Hutchins hits a forehand during the doubles match in the Davis Cup World Group play-off match between Great Britain and Austria at the All England Club, Wimbledon, London, England, 20 September, 2008. EPA/JONATHAN BRADY |

Nearly a year after being diagnosed with cancer, British doubles player Ross Hutchins is almost ready to return to the ATP World Tour. And he will be fit enough to take his place at the Australian Open alongside long-time partner Colin Fleming.

The 28 year-old is officially in remission from Hodgkin’s lymphoma and is back in training for his return to professional tennis. This week he and Fleming are practicing at the Lawn Tennis Association’s National Tennis Center in Roehampton.

Then Hutchins will fly out to Miami to link up with close friend Andy Murray for some intense fitness work and he then links up with Fleming again for a week on court in Spain. After a few days at home for Christmas, the pair will then head to Australia.

Going through six months of chemotherapy has given Hutchins a perspective he believes will free up his game. “There are bigger things in the world than tennis – like health, family and friends,” says Hutchins, who has asked Wimbledon champion Murray to be his best man when he marries his fiancée, Lindsay, at the end of next year.

“There are numerous other people who need your help and support around the world,” he adds. “That, I think, will help my tennis career.”

Fleming, 29, said: “Ross has fully recovered and has been training for some time. We will be back on court in the first week of the new year.”

The pair can play the Australian Open as Hutchins’ ranking has been protected because of his illness. “We will not be seeded but we aim to be the dark horses,” said Fleming.

Fleming added: “It is an amazing recovery. Ross has his strength back, got the life back in him and he looks superb. He is playing really well too. It is as if he has never been away. Ross is always very motivated but his illness has multiplied that, he is so fired up and ready to make the most of any opportunities. It has given that bit of perspective. It is inspirational for me too.”

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