London tennis player Ross Hutchins diagnosed with cancer

Great Britain's Ross Hutchins in action during his doubles match during day four of the AEGON Championships at The Queen's Club. Picture: PA Wire.

Monday, January 7, 2013
7:35 AM

British Davis Cup player Ross Hutchins has announced he has been diagnosed with cancer.

The 27-year-old, who has played seven Davis Cup ties for Britain since making his debut in 2008, revealed on his official Twitter account today that he is suffering from Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

He tweeted: “Happy New Year to all!Unfortunately I will be away from tennis for a while as I was recently diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma.

“I am doing well, very positive with excellent medical support,friends and family around me. Looking forward to being back on the court soon!”

Wimbledon-born Hutchins specialises in doubles competition, where he is currently ranked 28th in the world and has won five titles during his career, including two in 2012 at Eastbourne and Delray Beach alongside Scot Colin Fleming.

Hutchins’ father Paul is a former Davis Cup player and captain who also led the British team at last summer’s London Olympics.

Hutchins added in a statement released by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA): “Over the Christmas period I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

“This came as a shock but I am ready to move forward with the necessary treatment. I have the best medical support at Royal Marsden and very close family and friends supporting me.

“I look forward to getting over this hurdle and getting back to the ATP Tour and full steam ahead with my tennis career.”

LTA chief executive Roger Draper said: “Everyone in British Tennis is behind Ross. He is a true ambassador for the sport both on an off the court, and I have no doubt he will overcome this setback.

“It’s important that we give Ross and his family the privacy they need during this challenging time.”