The death of ATP’s beloved supervisor and former chair umpire leaves the tennis world mourning an unredeemable loss

The tennis world remembers the legacy of tennis officiator Tom Barnes, who passed away at the age of 82.

The death of ATP’s beloved supervisor and former chair umpire leaves the tennis world mourning an unredeemable loss

Tom Barnes ( Via ATP)

The tennis world mourns the passing of another greatly respected figure. Tom Barnes is known for elevating the tennis standard globally. The former chair umpire passed away at the age of 82 on Wednesday. He was not a champion player but left an impact far greater than any prize, officiating for over three decades. 

Barnes worked until his last breath, doing what he loved the most. Always invested in the sport, Barnes had not stopped loving his job, whether it was officiating himself or changing the careers of many by mentoring them. 

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From his first ATP tournament as an ATP supervisor in 1990, Tom worked day and night to improve himself while pushing the ones around him to also improve. 

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This was the mark of a great person who has now left a legacy behind. Many mourn the passing of the legend, but they also celebrate this day, remembering the always-smiling face of Barnes. 

Fondly known as “Baaaaarnes”, the legend had officiated professionally for over 31 years before calling the quits at the 2021 Nitto ATP Finals. He started his career as a chair umpire and even served as the US Open referee in 1991 and 1992 before turning into a full-time supervisor for the ATP tour. From then on, Barney trained many supervisors and new umpires and even refereed some events across the globe.

Tom Barnes, beloved husband, father, and grand-father bows out at the age of 82

The tennis world gives a moment of silence to the extremely sincere Tom Barnes, who has had a major influence on tennis, if not on the court.

Tom Barnes
Tom Barnes (Via Imago)

His hard work and dedication got him an honorary award for his 31-year service. At the 2021 Nitto ATP Finals, Barney was honored with a plaque that thanked him for his services in tennis. Former World No. 1 Andy Roddick was deeply saddened by the passing of his friend. 

I'm heartbroken to hear about the passing of my friend Tom Barnes. We all remember the people who taught us the ropes when first on tour. We didn't always agree when arguing about whatever dumb thing I had done on court, but I always trusted his opinion.
Posted Roddick in memory of the very influential Tom Barnes.

Barnes is survived by his wife, Debbie, son, and two grandchildren, whom he adored. Other than this, the legend also leaves behind a tennis community that is forever grateful for his legacy. 

He would say some version of "Andy we got that wrong today" or, "Kid, you made a mistake, and you should probably apologize to someone." He had this intimidating grumble of a voice, but it always dealt in love and respect. Over time it became less intimidating, and more endearing. He's someone that made me better. I won't forget him. I know tennis won't either. RIP Barnes. 
Continuing further, he added

With that being said, there is no denying that not only was he just a guy on the chair, but he was also a dedicated person and a teacher to many.

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