The journalism and tennis communities are mourning the loss of Mike Dickson, a revered tennis journalist whose death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and friends. Known affectionately as 'Dicko,' Mike was celebrated for his exceptional journalistic skills, his presence in the tennis media room, and his kindness and humor. Colleagues remember him as a brilliant news hound, a terrific writer, and a generous mentor to newcomers in the field. His impact extended beyond his writing; he was a trusted confidant in the industry and a friend to many, known for his character, journalistic heft, and ability to make others laugh, including an instance where he invited a lost tennis player into his home. His recent book is suggested as a way to honor his memory. The loss of Mike Dickson is deeply felt by many, including his family—Lucy, Sam, Ruby, and Joe—and industry figures like Sue Barker and Annabel Croft, who shared personal anecdotes of his support and friendship.
ANNABEL CROFT: Mike Dickson was one of life's great characters and a great friend... he always reached out after my husband died, and I will miss him terribly on the tour https://t.co/Vq8uutrjpJ https://t.co/b055teSU4C
SUE BARKER: When I was leaving the BBC, Mike Dickson was the person I called... he was the person I trusted most in the media and tennis won't be the same without him https://t.co/kkra87fbfE https://t.co/oSymCfk2hv
Shocked to learn the news of @Mike_Dickson_DM passing. Thoroughly enjoyed every interaction we had over the journey. Passionate man who loved what he did and respected all. Thoughts with his family and friends.
Shocking news and very sad. Just talked with Mike a few days ago. A truly professional and gentleman. Always friendly to me and I love his insights and sense of humor. RIP. https://t.co/wbo6ZVHcG7
A fitting tribute to our colleague and friend Mike, who was brilliant, generous, modest and will be missed so much. By @JonathanMcEvoy7 https://t.co/fj2zRTww1u
A fitting tribute from a dear friend on a horrible day. I covered many “odd jobs” at Opens & Olympics with Dicko, always kind, warm & fun but as a correspondent he was the ideal. Broke news, championed his sport but called out the stars when required, never stood still. RIP https://t.co/gFoeqGRsiZ
Thoughts & prayers are with you all .. Mike was a great man who I had a special bond with for many years xxx https://t.co/ITK29wIEJL
Deepest sympathies, Lucy and family. Mike was a great friend and colleague. https://t.co/DnCSaFa6xH
One way to honor Mike Dickson, proper journalist and proper good bloke: read his work. Here's his most recent book: https://t.co/xKe0vV0bda
Terrible news. One of the very best https://t.co/snvtkXW4iN
Mike was one of the best tennis journalists in the game. I did all I could to soak up his knowledge when I was on the tennis beat for ESPN back in the day. He had an unassailable authority. Everyone listened to every word when he talked. I was thrilled he even knew who I was when… https://t.co/oioRuoqVDS
Can't even find the words. Mike was incredibly kind, a key member of the press room. Could always make us laugh, always a fun chat. Once told me he found a tennis player lost on the tube and ended up inviting him into his home. Thoughts are with his family https://t.co/bmLlP7tXkj
Every minute you were alongside Mike at an event was a good one, because he had presence, character, journalistic heft and a sense of humour about it all. You just felt glad he was there. So sad that he's gone so soon. https://t.co/IC8oRpztL1
Dicko was a class act in everything he did. A top operator and great company. He was so good to me when I started out and feel privileged to have worked with such a great man for so many years. A devastating loss. https://t.co/ap14KSooJK
A great reporter, and even better man. The tennis media room won't be the same without him. Crushing news. https://t.co/N7pwHQBVuz
It is impossible to comprehend this news. Dicko was a wonderful colleague, travel companion and mate. Thoughts and prayers are with Lucy, Sam, Ruby and Joe at this awful time. RIP https://t.co/pyjfgydUR1
The most wonderful bloke. A brilliant journalist. The best. RIP Dicko. XXX https://t.co/ztOfTk06Gr
Dicko was everything you want a correspondent to be - a brilliant news hound, a terrific writer and a friend to so many in tennis. He was a giant, equally generous to young and old and it was a privilege to work alongside him and to know him. Our thoughts are with you all. https://t.co/FIBFDC7sxo