Leeds-born tennis rising star Felix Balshaw represents France with rugby world champion father's backing

Felix Balshaw has climbed more than 500 places in the ATP rankings since the start of 2026. The 20-year-old tennis player was born in Leeds while his father Iain played for Leeds Tykes, before the family moved to the Basque coastal city of Biarritz in 2009. His father was an electrifying full-back and wing who scored three tries during England's iconic 2003 Rugby World Cup campaign, helping secure a 20-17 victory over Australia in the final as a second-half substitute.

Professional Climb

Balshaw celebrated the first ATP Tour victory of his career this week at the Lyon Open, beating Portuguese world number 56 Jaime Faria. Having broken into the world's top 200 last month, he is now ranked number 178. He plays with a Roger Federer-style one-handed backhand and features a Thor-inspired hammer celebration on the court. At age 13, he chose tennis over rugby because he felt an individual sport provided more personal fire, despite growing up watching his father play in France.

Context

Athletes raised in sports families often face early crossroads when choosing between team traditions and individual pursuits. Balshaw's journey highlights how cross-border moves can shape a young athlete's national allegiance in global sports circuits.