Kerry Harris

Kerry Harris (born 19 September 1949) is an Australian former professional tennis player, active from 1967 to 1975, who reached the semi-final of the 1972 Australian Open, and reached four Grand Slam doubles finals, of which she won one, in the 1972 Australian Open.

Career Kerry’s early years were spent under the guidance of John Hildebrand (Snr), before being coached by Harry Hopman and trained by Stan Nicholes. In 1968, the first year of the open era, she was selected to be part of the Lawn Tennis Association of Australia’s Touring Team with Harry Hopman as manager. Merv Rose was Kerry’s coach in the later years of her career.

Kerry first reached a Grand Slam final in the 1971 French Open Women's Doubles, partnering Helen Gourlay, They lost in two sets to defending champions Francoise Durr and Gail Chanfreau.

Kerry won the final of the 1972 Australian Open Women's Doubles, partnering Helen Gourlay, beating Patricia Coleman-Clegg and Karen Krantzcke. In the women’s singles, seeded number 6, she reached the semifinals, losing to eventual champion Virginia Wade in three sets.

Kerry represented Australia in the 1973 Bonne Bell Cup Team against the USA played in Sydney. When the WTA was formed in 1973 she was a Foundation Member.

She reached the women’s doubles final of the 1973 Australian Open and the 1974 Australian Open partnering Kerry Melville on both occasions. In 1973, Margaret Court and Virginia Wade won the final, and in 1974, Evonne Goolagong and Peggy Michel won.

Kerry had wins in her career over Margaret Court, Nancy Richey, Kerry Melville, Judy Dalton, Wendy Turnbull, Betty Stöve and Francoise Durr. She was described as an athletic player, with a very powerful serve and volley game. She was praised for her good temperament on and off the court.

After her tennis career ended, she became a tennis coach.

Grand Slam finals

Doubles (1 title, 3 runner-ups)