Remembering Tom Barnes, tennis officiating legend

Andrew Eichenholz/ATP Tour

Tom Barnes, an institution in tennis who elevated officiating standards around the world, passed away Wednesday aged 82.

Barnes worked until his last breath and loved what he did. Nothing satisfied him more than mentoring officials and making a difference in their career. It was never about him — it was about doing everything in his power to improve the sport.

He was involved in tennis officiating for more than three decades and served as referee at tournaments as recently as last year. No matter what happened on court, nobody was as universally respected by players, staff and other members of the tennis community as Tom.

From his first tournament as an ATP Supervisor at an ATP Challenger Tour event in Guam in 1990, Tom relentlessly worked to improve officiating in the sport and pushed everyone to constantly improve. After serving as supervisor for the last time at the 2021 Nitto ATP Finals, he continued to mentor officials — from new umpires to training supervisors — and refereed events across the globe.

^{Barnes was honoured at the 2021 Nitto ATP Finals in Turin. Photo: ATP Tour.}
Barnes proudly served as a member of the United States Marine Corps in Vietnam. During that time, he also played tennis when he could.

Later on, he owned a manufacturing company that built cabinets for hospitals and schools. When Barnes sold the business, he worked on a couple of projects for the manager of his local tennis club. Tom, who also worked for the Northern California Tennis Association for four years from 1980, helped with a clinic at the club and then became the club pro.

When Tom was a kid, his mother gave him an old wooden racquet. They cut off the handle to allow him to hit against their garage door. The Fresno, California resident was the first to admit he was not the best player throughout his life, and those who lost early in tournaments would serve as umpires. That set the course for his career.

“Baaaaarnes”, as everyone affectionately called him, received his international certification as a chair umpire in 1983 and would later serve as the US Open referee in 1991 and 1992. By 1994, he became a full-time supervisor for the ATP Tour.

His most recent role at the ATP was Director of Officiating Development, and after his retirement in 2021 he continued as a contractor to mentor future generations of officials.

It is fitting that Barnes would spend almost his entire life improving the sport. His influence will be felt for generations to come.

Former World No. 1 Andy Roddick said: “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. He would say some version of "Andy we got that wrong today" or, "Kid, you made a mistake, and you should probably apologise 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.”

Former World No. 4 Todd Martin said: “Tom Barnes was a no-nonsense man with a hard and imposing presence, and yet a most gentle and understanding core. Tom loved our game, believed in its foundations of goodwill and fair play, and dedicated himself to the ATP Tour. It was a pleasure working with Tom for over 30 years (as a player and tournament director). He always gave it to us straight, let us down easy, and kept his door open to do it all over again the next day or week. Tom will be dearly missed but the memories of our friend will remain with us.”

ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi said: "Tom was an ever-present figure at ATP Tour events for decades. It’s hard to think of anyone who was more dedicated to serving the game. Behind his commanding aura, he carried a warmth and kindness that touched so many. His legacy will live on in the way the game is officiated for years to come. We will miss him greatly and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Tom."

ATP Senior Vice President, Rules & Competition, Miro Bratoev said: “Today is a very sad day for all of us. Tom was an exemplary figure of knowledge, passion, and strength. He had a deep love for officiating and tennis and dedicated his life to the development of officials around the world for decades. Rest in peace, Tom. You will be greatly missed.”

ATP Senior Director of Officiating Administration Ali Nili said: “If you look at the top level of officiating, from chair umpires to supervisors, you will not see a single person who was not mentored by Tom. I was privileged to be part of that group and I will do everything in my power to maintain his legacy and ensure the principles he used in his training live forever.”

Barnes is survived by his wife Debbie, son and two grandchildren, whom he adored.

^{Photo: Getty Images}