The rising Liberal star who opted to quit politics
SAM GROTH FAST FACTS
* Sam Groth was born and raised in regional NSW before moving to Melbourne at the age of 16.
* He is married to his wife, Brittany, and together they have twin sons born in 2021.
* The 38-year-old former professional tennis player represented Australia at the Olympics and Davis Cup
* He holds the title of the fastest serving player in the world
* Mr Groth entered politics after claiming victory in the ultra-marginal seat of Nepean for Labor in the 2022 state election
POLITICAL CAREER AND DISCUSSIONS:
* Held the title of Liberal deputy leader under both Jess Wilson and former leader Brad Battin
* Mr Groth previously served as opposition spokesman for tourism, sport and events
* He sued Melbourne’s Herald Sun newspaper over articles published in July 2025 over allegations about the conditions he was living in when he met his wife
* Legal action resulted in a confidential settlement that included a published apology and compensation
* Mr Groth made headlines in January 2024 after using the then opposition upper house leader Georgie Crozier’s chauffeured car to return home from the Australian Open
* In 2025, Mr. Groth spent more than $300 on accommodation when he attended the March Formula 1 Glamor on the Grid event
SPORTS ACHIEVEMENTS
* Mr. Groth made his Grand Slam debut at the 2009 Australian Open
* In 2012, Mr. Groth broke the world record for the fastest tennis serve, reaching speeds of 263 km per hour.
* He broke into the world’s top 100 in 2014 and reached a career-high of 53 the following year.
* In 2015, he was awarded the Newcombe Medal, Tennis Australia’s highest honour.
* Mr. Groth retired from professional tennis in 2018
QUIT POLITICS
* Mr Groth confirmed on 5 January 2026 that he would not seek re-election for the seat of Nepean at the November 2026 Victorian election
* Says recent months have been “extremely difficult” for his family
* The former tennis star said internal divisions within his party also contributed to his decision
* It is unknown whether he will remain in parliament or not
