Sam Querrey
Samuel Austin Querrey (/ˈkwɛri/ KWERR-ee; born October 7, 1987) is a renowned former American tennis and pickleball player. His exceptional career in the world of professional tennis has been marked by formidable achievements, including reaching a career-high singles ranking of world No. 11, achieved on February 26, 2018. Known for his powerful serve, Querrey holds the record for consecutive service aces in a match with 10.
Tennis Career
Querrey embarked on his professional tennis career with a reputation as a powerful server, quickly rising through the ranks. Over the course of his career, he claimed ten ATP singles titles. His career was marked by several notable victories and performances, including his stunning upset of Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon in 2016 and his triumph over Andy Murray in the 2017 Wimbledon quarterfinals. His performances secured his place among the elite of tennis, frequently going head-to-head with top players like John Isner and Stan Wawrinka.
Key Matches and Achievements
- 2016 Wimbledon Championships: Querrey famously defeated the defending champion Novak Djokovic in the third round.
- 2017 Wimbledon Championships: He reached the semifinals after defeating Andy Murray in the quarterfinals.
- Consecutive Service Aces Record: He set a record with 10 consecutive service aces in a match.
Transition to Pickleball
Following his successful tennis career, Sam Querrey made an unexpected transition into professional pickleball, highlighting the dynamic adaptability of his athletic prowess. Playing on the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour, Querrey was the first draft pick and became a member of the Atlanta Bouncers Major League Pickleball team. His influence in pickleball showcases his versatility and commitment to competitive sports beyond tennis.
Personal Life and Legacy
Querrey's career faced a potential turning point due to a severe accident in which a glass table collapsed, impaling his arm. The injury required immediate surgery and posed a risk of nerve damage that could have ended his professional tennis career prematurely. Fortunately, he recovered and continued to contribute to the sport, later announcing his intent to retire in December 2025.
After hanging up his rackets, Querrey transitioned to a role as a tennis commentator for ESPN, where he continues to share his knowledge and insights into the game with audiences worldwide.