John Lumley, a professional real tennis player, grew up steeped in the sport. His mother was the ladies' world champion, winning titles in the late '80s and early '90s, and his father was also deeply involved in the game. John's childhood was filled with tennis, accompanying his mother to practice sessions and observing the sport closely, although he didn't initially grasp its complexity.

John's introduction to playing tennis began informally. His father would take him and his sister, Tara, to practice on Sunday mornings. Despite these early experiences, it wasn't until John was 15 that he seriously considered pursuing tennis. Winning the under-16 British national championship was a pivotal moment, igniting his passion for the game and setting him on a path toward a professional career.

His father's influence remained significant, despite John's regret over not spending more time practicing with him. His dad's technical skill and strategic insights were invaluable, although they sometimes clashed due to the familial dynamic. His mother, on the other hand, was slowing down her playing career as John was ramping up, leading to fewer direct training sessions between them.

After high school, John transitioned swiftly into a professional career, working at Radley College under the mentorship of Chris Ronaldson, a former world champion. Chris's rigorous training regime, including precision drills and serving games, honed John's skills. The experience at Radley was formative, providing John with both professional development and a supportive community.

In 2013, John moved to Philadelphia to work at the Racket Club. The transition was challenging, marked by homesickness and the need to establish a new social circle. However, the supportive environment of the club and his mentor, Rob Fahey, helped him acclimate. Training with Rob improved John's backhand and overall game strategy.

John's career milestones include significant victories, such as winning the T&RA Championship in 2018 against Rob Fahey. This win was particularly memorable due to the challenging circumstances leading up to it, including a severe bout of illness. His resilience and ability to perform under pressure were evident in this and other matches.

John's approach to the game is a blend of physical fitness and mental strategy. He acknowledges the importance of experience in making tactical adjustments during matches, a skill that has developed over time. Watching and analyzing his past matches has been crucial in refining his gameplay.

Looking ahead, John aspires to become the world champion, a goal he's held since his teenage years. The journey is tough, with intense competition and the need for consistent high-level performance. Despite the challenges, John's dedication to the sport remains unwavering, fueled by a love for the game and the unique community surrounding it.

Philadelphia has become John's home base, where he enjoys the vibrant tennis community and the supportive club environment. His future in the sport looks promising as he continues to push his limits, aiming to close the gap between his current standing and his ultimate goal of becoming the world champion.