Cam Norrie announces engagement during South Africa safari
Cameron Norrie is preparing to marry his long-term partner Louise Jacobi after proposing during a safari holiday in South Africa, reports BritPanorama.
The British No 2 chose the andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge in Timbavati, approximately a six-hour drive from his birthplace of Johannesburg, as the setting for the proposal. Following the engagement, Jacobi confirmed the news on Instagram: “A special moment on our trip in South Africa. Cheers to a beautiful life together with my best friend.”
Jacobi, a Chicago-born fashion and textiles designer aged 35, published a series of photographs featuring the couple against the scenic backdrop of the reserve. She humorously added that a “real engagement ring” would arrive later, showcasing a temporary ring on her little finger beside a smiling Norrie, 30.
Congratulatory messages poured in from the tennis community, with fellow professionals like Alex de Minaur and Katie Boulter, who became engaged themselves last year, being among the first to extend their best wishes.
Norrie’s engagement marks nearly six years since he first met Jacobi in New York. Earlier this year, she told Tatler that their introduction came through a mutual friend who had played college tennis. This friend suggested she meet “some guys playing in the US Open” after their matches.
The rest of their journey seems serendipitous. Jacobi admitted that despite initial encouragement from friends, she did not believe the relationship would last. Norrie’s demanding travel schedule contributed to her scepticism, leading her to recall being “just not interested” at first.
Initially declining his attempts to spend more time together, Jacobi eventually relented due to Norrie’s persistence. The dynamics of their relationship deepened in 2019 when Jacobi lost her job after her employer went bankrupt.
Norrie invited her to join him at the Erste Bank Open in Vienna, an opportunity she approached with skepticism regarding his unconventional lifestyle. “I thought, ‘I guess this guy doesn’t live a normal life,’” she explained.
Eventually, her trip, initially intended to last five days, became a pivotal moment, as they enjoyed quality time together. Jacobi has expressed gratitude for the timing of her job loss, which she believes was crucial for establishing a strong foundation for their partnership.
Norrie’s parents have previously noted Jacobi’s calm and positive influence on their son, and she remains a regular presence courtside at his matches, providing support throughout the tournament season.
As Norrie prepares for this new chapter, it serves as a reminder that amid the rigours of professional sport, life’s personal milestones unfold remarkably.
