Former tennis star Annabel Croft is set to compete on Strictly Come Dancing in 2023. Croft, 57, is not only aiming for ballroom dancing glory but also hopes to find joy following the death of her husband, Mel Coleman, earlier this year. Croft, born in Farnborough, Kent, started playing tennis at the age of nine and went on to have a successful career, becoming the youngest player to compete at Wimbledon in 95 years at the age of 15. However, she retired at the age of 21 due to a string of losses and the loneliness she experienced on tour. Croft then embarked on a television career, working as a presenter, tennis reporter, commentator, and anchor for various broadcasters. She has also appeared on documentaries, including Famous, Rich and Homeless, where she lived on the streets of London for nine days to raise awareness about homelessness. Croft’s participation in Strictly Come Dancing is seen as an opportunity for her to find joy and take her mind off her husband’s death.