British tennis player Heather Watson has resorted to using an electric Lime bike for her commute to a new tennis event in south-west London. This decision follows a frustrating period after her car was stolen.
The tournament, a WTA event held at Queen’s Club in Baron’s Court for the first time since 1973, is conveniently located for Watson, being a mere 10-minute cycle ride from her residence.
While other players may use official tournament transportation, the British No. 7 prefers two wheels as a more environmentally friendly alternative.
Her choice is the distinctive green-and-white Lime electric bikes, which can reach speeds of up to 15mph and are readily available across the capital.
Watson, a former Wimbledon mixed doubles champion (having won with Henri Kontinen in 2016), had her car stolen in the summer of 2023.
The Guernsey-born star`s Range Rover was taken from the underground car park of her West London home on the evening she was celebrating her 31st birthday with friends.
At the time, she spoke about the significant stress caused by dealing with the time-consuming process involving the insurance company.
Although the police eventually located the vehicle and moved it to a car pound, her difficulties continued with what she called the “ball-ache” of handling the insurance specifics.
On Thursday afternoon, after losing her match 6-4, 6-2 to former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, qualifier Watson was seen leaving the premises on her bike.
Following the defeat, she explained her reliance on cycling to the media. “Bikes are my means of transport,” she stated.
“Since my car was stolen, and it’s just been the bane of my life, I’m in the process of selling it,” she revealed.
“Still such a pain. Don’t get a car. That’s my advice. I’m a Lime biker through and through.”
She added, “Rain or shine, I’m on my bike, that’s how I get to the NTC (National Tennis Centre) every day.”
“That’s how I got home yesterday from the site because it takes ten minutes.”
“I love cycling, and I feel like it’s kind of a type of meditation for me, as well.”
“I just really enjoy being out in the fresh air cycling. It’s a great warmup, about 20 minutes from where I live to the NTC, so it’s perfect for me.”
“I won’t be getting another car. I’m a cyclist. They used to drive me crazy, but now I’m one of them, and I have a different perspective,” Watson explained.
Recounting the theft, she said, “How was my car stolen? Oh, I won’t bore you, but a couple years ago it got stolen.”
“And it’s just been breaking down ever since. Insurance? Biggest scam ever. They just try and rinse you.”
“Yeah, disaster. I get discriminated against because I’m an athlete. So your prices are already….forget the cars. Not forever, but for now,” she concluded on the topic of her car troubles.
Heather Watson is not the only notable figure recently spotted using Lime Bikes. The England Test cricket team also opted for this mode of transport prior to their match against the West Indies.
