From Grand Slam Champion to Basketball Star: The Inspiring Journey of Josh Ward-Hibbert

The Dual-Sport Phenomenon

Few athletes successfully transition between elite-level sports, but Josh Ward-Hibbert stands as a rare exception. The 31-year-old British athlete first gained recognition as a Wimbledon junior competitor before claiming the 2012 Australian Open junior doubles title with lifelong friend Liam Broady. His tennis career included 13 ITF Futures doubles titles before pivoting to basketball, where he now shines for Newcastle Eagles in European competitions.

Melbourne Magic: A Tennis Career Defined

• 2012 Australian Open: Secured junior doubles title with Broady
• ITF Circuit: Won 14 professional titles (1 singles, 13 doubles)
• Tour Life: Competed alongside future ATP stars like Lloyd Glasspool
  "Winning a Grand Slam with my closest friend remains my most cherished memory," Ward-Hibbert told BBC Sport. "Tennis shaped my resilience - living 50 weeks annually from a suitcase teaches you mental toughness."

Basketball Resurrection

After retiring from tennis at 22 due to recurring injuries, Ward-Hibbert reignited his basketball passion at Loughborough University. His 6'5" frame became an asset in the British Basketball League:

• Leicester Riders: 7 domestic trophies
• London Lions: 3 championship wins
• Newcastle Eagles: Key player in historic European North Basketball League campaign

Chasing Continental Glory

Currently competing in Slovakia's Final Four, Ward-Hibbert aims to deliver Newcastle's first European trophy. "We're writing new chapters," he says, referencing the Eagles' record 28 domestic titles. "After Newcastle United's Wembley triumph, we want to continue sporting success for our city."

The Ultimate Athletic Dilemma

When asked to compare individual versus team sport triumphs, Ward-Hibbert reflects:

"That final tennis point brings unmatched adrenaline, but celebrating championships with teammates creates lifelong bonds. Both offer extraordinary rewards - just in different ways."