Annabel Croft has offered a heartfelt glimpse into her life following the devastating loss of her husband, Mel Coleman, who passed away from stomach cancer in May 2023, just 16 weeks after his diagnosis. The former tennis professional, now 58, described the experience as “horrendous” and reflected on the deep bond they shared.
In a recent interview, Annabel revealed that Mel was her “rock” and credited him with giving her “huge amounts of confidence,” emphasizing that she wouldn’t be the person she is today without him. She fondly remembered his humor as something she misses most.
When asked about dating again, Annabel gave a succinct five-word reply: “I don’t even consider it.” She explained that moving into the dating world is “way too soon” and not something she is thinking about at this point in her life.
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Since Mel’s passing, Annabel—who gained fame both as a tennis champion and as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing—has found some comfort in the show. She described her dance partner, Johannes Radebe, as helping to “alleviate the pain” and bringing a “glimmer of joy” back into her days.
Annabel’s journey in tennis began early, as she became the youngest British competitor at Wimbledon in nearly a century at age 15 and clinched the junior championship by 18. She met Mel at 21 when they participated in a sailing-themed TV show—an experience that introduced her to a more normal social life beyond tennis.
Reflecting on their relationship, Annabel said Mel taught her how to live and gave her unwavering confidence and strength.
The NHS provides important information on stomach cancer, the illness that claimed Mel’s life. It’s a condition that varies in seriousness depending on stage and health, with symptoms including heartburn, difficulty swallowing, nausea, loss of appetite, and fatigue. The NHS advises timely consultation with a GP if symptoms persist or worsen.
Annabel Croft’s story is one of love, loss, and resilience—a poignant reminder of the profound impact a partner can have and the slow, personal journey of moving forward.