William 'Bill' Christensen Inspirational and Motivational at Age 77

The Henry L. McMullen Tennis Complex in Clearwater, Florida, is known, on Florida’s west coast as a haven for tennis players of all ages and levels. One distinct observation is that there is a substantial number, level and quality of players in the 65-plus age bracket that claim McMullen Complex their playing home. William “Bill” Christensen, age 77, represents and exemplifies this age bracket in an inspiring and gentlemanly manner.

Christensen’s superb physical condition, playing style, commitment to practice and love of the game of tennis is evident to all observers. His quiet, humble manner, superb sportsmanship and ready smile complete the package of a senior singles player, still playing competitively and enjoying the adventure, well into his 70s.

Christensen hails from Chicago, Illinois, and, with his athleticism, played baseball, football and hockey during his school years. Relocating to Florida in 1973, and finally settling in Clearwater, he met his wife, Joan, shortly thereafter, and they have recently celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary. A devoted family man, he is a father and grandfather to a daughter and two grandchildren. With a construction background and a strong work ethic, he established a local moving company that has serviced the Clearwater area for many decades. Even though Christensen now considers himself retired from the business, he still offers his services to many charities needing moving assistance. He attributes a hands-on, physical working approach to maintaining conditioning at his age.

Above: Bill Christensen stays fit through singles, doubles, workouts and practice.

After his move to Florida, Christensen’s tennis play started at age 35. Tennis has been a significant part of his life ever since. With an avid interest in the game and the motivation to practice and improve, he advanced rapidly and commenced playing competitive tournaments and league competitions. As a member of multiple USTA teams advancing to Nationals, and success in age-group tournaments, he generated high state rankings and became a well-known player in the Tampa Bay area and the state. His wife, Joan, has always been by his side, traveling to tournaments, providing encouragement and support. He credits her confidence and steadfastness in making his tennis endeavors so successful and enjoyable.

Christensen continues to compete in senior age-group tournaments all over the country, playing mostly singles. He is much sought after as a doubles partner, which rounds out the tournament experience. A knee replacement surgery paused his tennis play a few years ago, so he devoted most of 2018-2019 recovering and doing extensive rehab work. With his usual determination and measured persistence, he was back on the court drilling and hitting balls shortly thereafter. Christensen has a consistent, cross-training routine for maintaining optimum physical conditioning. To stay strong, fit, mobile and injuryfree on the tennis court, he swims, cycles and utilizes weight training. His weekly, four-day tennis schedule consists of: drilling/practicing once, singles once and doubles twice. This combination works well and is an example for others to follow. A balanced diet and “all things in moderation” rounds out a healthy lifestyle. He definitely appears to be 10-15 years younger than his actual age, on the court and off.

The Henry L. McMullen Tennis Complex in Clearwater, Florida, is known, on Florida’s west coast as a haven for tennis players of all ages and levels. One distinct observation is that there is a substantial number, level and quality of players in the 65-plus age bracket that claim McMullen Complex their playing home. William “Bill” Christensen, age 77, represents and exemplifies this age bracket in an inspiring and gentlemanly manner.

Above: Bill Christensen and his wife, Joan.

Christensen’s superb physical condition, playing style, commitment to practice and love of the game of tennis is evident to all observers. His quiet, humble manner, superb sportsmanship and ready smile complete the package of a senior singles player, still playing competitively and enjoying the adventure, well into his 70s.

Christensen hails from Chicago, Illinois, and, with his athleticism, played baseball, football and hockey during his school years. Relocating to Florida in 1973, and finally settling in Clearwater, he met his wife, Joan, shortly thereafter, and they have recently celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary. A devoted family man, he is a father and grandfather to a daughter and two grandchildren. With a construction background and a strong work ethic, he established a local moving company that has serviced the Clearwater area for many decades. Even though Christensen now considers himself retired from the business, he still offers his services to many charities needing moving assistance. He attributes a hands-on, physical working approach to maintaining conditioning at his age.

After his move to Florida, Christensen’s tennis play started at age 35. Tennis has been a significant part of his life ever since. With an avid interest in the game and the motivation to practice and improve, he advanced rapidly and commenced playing competitive tournaments and league competitions. As a member of multiple USTA teams advancing to Nationals, and success in age-group tournaments, he generated high state rankings and became a well-known player in the Tampa Bay area and the state. His wife, Joan, has always been by his side, traveling to tournaments, providing encouragement and support. He credits her confidence and steadfastness in making his tennis endeavors so successful and enjoyable.

Christensen continues to compete in senior age-group tournaments all over the country, playing mostly singles. He is much sought after as a doubles partner, which rounds out the tournament experience. A knee replacement surgery paused his tennis play a few years ago, so he devoted most of 2018-2019 recovering and doing extensive rehab work. With his usual determination and measured persistence, he was back on the court drilling and hitting balls shortly thereafter. Christensen has a consistent, cross-training routine for maintaining optimum physical conditioning. To stay strong, fit, mobile and injuryfree on the tennis court, he swims, cycles and utilizes weight training. His weekly, four-day tennis schedule consists of: drilling/practicing once, singles once and doubles twice. This combination works well and is an example for others to follow. A balanced diet and “all things in moderation” rounds out a healthy lifestyle. He definitely appears to be 10-15 years younger than his actual age, on the court and off.

Christensen is a credit to tennis and to athletes of all ages. His lifestyle, fitness level and zest for this sport is truly remarkable and should be a great motivator for everyone. He comments that the sport “has been a true passion in life, bringing lifelong friends and rich experiences along the way”. He will continue playing the sport he loves with practice, preparation and tournament play well into the future. He truly treasures each day on the tennis court. Tennis is keeping Bill Christensen young and vibrant!

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Written by: Debbie Hobbs. This article also appears in the November/December 2023 issue of Florida Tennis Magazine. Be sure to subscribe for expanded coverage, exclusive interviews, and in-depth tennis news. Photos courtesy of Debbie Hobbs.