This month, we’re shining our Global Impact a spotlight on Marjory Love, a St Columba’s former pupil whose dedication, passion, and competitive spirit have propelled her to the pinnacle of international tennis. While her career as a solicitor saw her make contributions to the legal world, it is her recent triumph on the tennis court that has captured the attention of the National news: Marjory is the top ranked women’s tennis player in the world in the 75+ category!
BBC News article – Top ranked women’s tennis player in the world
In her tennis career, Marjory has won over 80 IFT Masters Tour titles as an individual and doubles player! Her love for sport was evident from her days at St Columba’s, where she excelled not only in tennis but a keen athlete as a junior athletics champion, Marjory also played lacrosse for school.
“I feel very fortunate to be able to keep active in later life, when I know many who can’t, so I enjoy every minute of it.”
Reflecting on her time at St Columba’s, Marjory fondly remembers her love for Latin and the decision to pursue law at the University of Edinburgh. “Very few girls from St Columba’s took a path like that at the time, and there were very few women on the Law pathway,” she recalled. Yet, her passion for sports provided her with a strong network and helped her build connections throughout her academic and professional life.
After graduating, she trained with a firm in Glasgow before eventually becoming a partner at Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP, where she worked until her retirement at 50. Not one to rest on her laurels, Marjory then pursued a second degree in Computer Science at Paisley University, demonstrating her lifelong love of learning.
She began playing the sport at nine years old – which was the earliest she was permitted to play at Brookfield Tennis Club. Her competitive streak ignited at 13 when she started winning tournaments, and she took the Scottish National title at 21. Over the years, she witnessed the growth of womens’ masters (veterans) tennis, noting the shift from 10-year age gaps in competitions to the current five-year divisions, reflecting the increasing popularity of the sport.
Marjory’s talent and dedication earned her selection to represent Great Britain in tennis teams from the age of 45. This opened doors to incredible travel opportunities, allowing her to compete in prestigious tournaments across Australia, America, South America, and beyond.
“I feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to travel doing something that I love and seeing so many different places.”
At 18, Marjory contemplated pursuing a professional tennis career and considered going to Wimbledon. However, due to the system at the time, points accumulated in Scotland were not recognised in the same way as those earned in England. Despite this, she has enjoyed the privilege of playing on Wimbledon’s practice courts on several occasions.
Her commitment to the sport extends beyond playing. Marjory is a valued member of an ITF Advisory panel, contributing to the organisation of international masters level events. She also serves as Treasurer of Glasgow Disability Tennis, where she finds immense joy in playing with a visually impaired member of the GB squad. Her dedication to inclusivity and development in the sport is truly commendable.
Today, Marjory, along with Christine Lockhart and Christine Windmill, all members of the Great Britian team that won the Womens 75 World Team Championships in 2024, continue to inspire. Her recent victory at the World Individual Championships is a testament to her unwavering spirit and dedication. As she puts it, “I’m past developing my game – I am what I am at this stage!” But what she is, is a champion, an inspiration, and a proud St Columba’s former pupil who has undoubtedly made a global impact. We congratulate Marjory on her incredible achievements and thank her for reminding us that passion and perseverance can lead to extraordinary success at any age.
