The ABTO Podcast, from the Association of British Tennis Officials, explores the world of tennis officiating through the voices of those who have shaped it.

In this episode, we speak with Denise Parnell - the trailblazing tennis official who made history as the first female referee at the Wimbledon Championships. Denise shares insights into her role at what is widely considered the most prestigious sporting event in the world. She reflects on her journey to the top, the challenges she faced along the way, and why it has taken so long for a woman to step into this position.

Denise's historic appointment as Wimbledon’s first female referee came in 2024 following her appointment as the first female referee at the ATP event at Queen’s Club in 2021, the same year she also served as referee for the Wimbledon qualifying event. Prior to these milestones, Denise spent over a decade honing her expertise in the Wimbledon referees' office, beginning in 2006.

Before stepping into officiating, Denise competed as a professional tennis player in the 1980s and played in the main draw of the Wimbledon Ladies’ Singles in 1986.

Her excellence in officiating has earned her much recognition, including being named ABTO Referee of the Year in both 2021 and 2024.

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With thanks to editor Adam Woodward and the Wolfe Power Club Podcast of Studio 55 for their technical support.