Peter Neathey – 1952-2026
Middlesex Tennis is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one of the county’s most respected and well-known coaches, Peter Neathey.
Peter enjoyed an outstanding career, working with many talented players during their formative years. Among them were former WTA Top 100 players Anne Keothavong and Harriet Dart, as well as numerous players who went on to represent Middlesex with distinction and later become highly successful coaches themselves.
In his roles as County Cup Captain, team manager and county coach, Peter inspired generations of young players. He had a unique ability to bring out the very best in his teams, combining high standards with wit, humour and genuine kindness.
Peter played an integral part in Middlesex’s success in 2019, when the county finished first in the LTA County Cup Race.
In recognition of his exceptional leadership, he was named Middlesex County Cup Captain of the Year.
Middlesex Tennis extends its heartfelt condolences to Peter’s family at this difficult time, including his son Sam, a talented player in his own right, who proudly represented the county on numerous occasions.
Middlesex Tennis Players
He used to pick me up from school on my bike and take me straight to the club for a lesson. My school was quite far from the club. We cycled together and that was warm up before we stepped onto court. I can still remember the days we shovelled snow off the court just so I could practice my drive volleys, serves and volleys. I think one of my best memories during squad times was fitness running round the block at South Hampstead with his timer set. Have so much to be thankful to him ingraining so many habits into not only my tennis career but my life. Always remembered, never forgotten. With love!
~ Harriet Dart
💔
~ Anne Keothavong
Middlesex Tennis Coaches Thoughts
Always been a great well respected coach since I was a teenager when I 1st met Peter and his son Sam. A true legend taken to early ~ Anthony
Such devastating news. Peter impacted so many peoples lives, including many of ours from childhood. He will be missed ~ Marina
Peter was mine and my brothers coach when we first started playing tennis at South Hampstead tennis club and played a pivotal role in our lives as I know he did for many others. He will be sorely missed ~ Niall
Sad day. I’m really going to miss Peter 🫶🏼 Marina
So sad in Middlesex. Legend gone too soon ~ James
I was sad to hear about Peter. Many condolences to his family. ~ Otto
Peter was a huge part of my junior years. He coached me alongside Sam (I his son) in the County squad, and I’ll always remember the energy, detail and pride he brought to every single session. He had that balance of high standards and humour you knew he cared deeply, but he always made it enjoyable. ~ Shola
Very sad news. Peter did have great impact in a lot of player’s journey and he always lead with kindness. Always had a good word and time for each player 🙌🏻 Corina
It is sad to think he will not going to be among us anymore.
He was a school on his own and a great mentor to players and coaches in Middlesex. He will be hugely missed for many reasons..
May his soul rest in peace …🌹 Liana
I am so sorry to hear this news. Please pass on all the sympathies to family and friends. ❤️ Claire
Peter was my and my brother’s coach during our junior years, and it was a real pleasure to later have the opportunity to work alongside him as his assistant coach for Middlesex. He made a huge impact on our family and upbringing and will be fondly remembered. May his soul rest in peace. ~ Miren
Peter and I had a lot of fun times working together with not just the juniors but the Middlesex men’s county side… and some very diverse and interesting conversations which were always enjoyable!
An absolute legend on and off the court – fire 🔥 and ice 🧊 ❤️❤️Mark Tomlinson
Dear Andrew, the terribly sad news about Peter came as such a shock to Hugo and I. We were only with Peter a couple of weeks before when we gave him a lift home from county training.
Peter travelled with us to and from county trainings frequently, and Hugo and I had so many interesting, informative and humorous chats with him. He was a wonderful man and his passing is such a huge loss.
I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to the Middlesex county admin and coaching team, and to Peter’s friends and family.
Best regards.
Derrick
