Unveiling Her Heartache: Annabel Croft's Emotional Journey from Wimbledon to Strictly, One Day at a Time

Happiness has been scarce for Annabel Croft in recent times. The former tennis star has shed tears every day since her husband, Mel Coleman, passed away in May. Coleman was diagnosed with cancer and his death has left Croft and their three children devastated.

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Croft reveals that the tragic loss inspired her to participate in Strictly Come Dancing. Not only will this be a tribute to her late husband, who was a big fan of the show, but she hopes that the demanding training regime will help distract her from the heartache and bring some joy back into her life.

"It's been a terrible, terrible time," Croft candidly reflects on the past few months. "There's not been a day I haven't cried. That's why I think I'll be able to distract myself with something absolutely wonderful."

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However, Croft acknowledges that her journey on Strictly will be bittersweet without her husband by her side. "He always loved the show and he used to cry watching it," she reveals. "So I'm completely heartbroken that he's not here to watch with me."

Mr. Coleman, a former America's Cup yachtsman, passed away at the age of 60, just two months after experiencing stomach pain. He was later diagnosed with stage 3 cancer.

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Croft returned to work just weeks after the tragic loss, conducting post-match interviews during the BBC's coverage of the Wimbledon finals and overseeing the winners' ceremony. While fans applauded her strength and professionalism, Croft is now hoping for more from her time on Strictly.

"It's about having some joy," Croft expresses. "Just learning something new, listening to the music, hopefully just going with the flow. I've never done anything like it before, but I'm willing to give it a go. I hope it's fun and I won't take myself too seriously."

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Croft's three adult children, Charlie, Amber, and Lily, are excited and supportive of her decision to take part in the show as it brings her happiness. They themselves are talented dancers and have been offering her tips to help her loosen up on the dancefloor. The tight-knit family often goes on holiday together in their camper van, affectionately named Vanabelle.

Aside from her emotional healing, Croft's fitness regime, which includes running, tennis, yoga, and padel, a racket sport she is an ambassador for, will aid her in meeting the demands of the dance show. She has even released her own fitness video in the past.

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In 1982, at just 15 years old, Croft made a name for herself as the youngest Briton to compete at Wimbledon in nearly a century. She retired from professional tennis at the age of 21. Croft met her husband while working as a broadcaster and the couple tied the knot in 1992.

Although Croft has described Strictly as a "terrifying prospect," she is no stranger to pushing herself professionally and personally. Her role as a host during the Wimbledon finals was a nerve-racking but enjoyable experience, and she believes that overcoming challenges and fears brings increased confidence.