Tennis star Henry Young has turned 100 and has no intention of slowing down soon

The world’s oldest competitive tennis player, Henry Young, has celebrated his 100th birthday surrounded by friends and playing the game he loves so passionately.

WWII veteran and former Keith farmer Henry Young (right) turned 100 on Tuesday and to celebrate, he played tennis with Michael Donaldson, 90, at the South Parkland Hockey & Tennis Centre. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

The oldest competitive tennis player in the world, South Australian Henry Young, rang in his 100th birthday on Tuesday doing what he loves best – playing tennis.

The World War II veteran and former Keith farmer said he feels “very lucky” to have reached a milestone birthday.

“I just can’t believe it,” he said.

“I’ve had such a wonderful life and I’m still enjoying it.”

Lt Young served in World War II from 1942-45 as a fighter pilot, something which he referred to as “every young boy’s dream” at the time.

The war veteran served in the British and Australian navies and flew a variety of aircraft including a Boeing Stearman, a Supermarine Spitfire, the Seafire and the Hawker Sea Fury.

Lt Young said flying the fighter planes, although daunting at first, was something he grew to love.

“It stays with you for life … you get to love it,” he said.

Henry Young celebrated his 100th birthday by playing tennis. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

Lt Young served in WWII as a fighter pilot. Picture: Supplied.

Now 100, Lt Young said the time he looks back to most fondly was when he was a farmer in Keith with his wife, Madge and three sons, Mike Young, Steve Young and Nick Young.

“(Farming is) a competitive game … it’s a battle,” he said.

“My farming years were so tough and so hard … (but) when you work hard and see the results, it’s very satisfying.”

Lt Young met his wife, Madge Young – who he refers to as the love of his life – a few years after the war ended in about 1949.

“It was meant to be,” he said. “We were a match made in heaven.”

After living a full life together, Ms Young died in May of this year aged 99.

The couple had started a large family now consisting of nine grandchildren, two step grandchildren, seven great grandchildren and two step great grandchildren.

“It’s such a hole in my life and everyone said she was wonderful,” Lt Young said.

After retiring at 70, Lt Young went on to pursue tennis which has since proven a successful venture with him becoming the oldest competitive tennis player in the world.

Henry Young playing tennis at the South Parkland Hockey & Tennis Centre. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

“I play a lot of tennis which keeps me active,” he said.

The competitive tennis player, who plays three to four times a week, will be travelling to Mallorca, Spain in October to compete in the World Individual Championships.

“I think I’ll do well,” Lt Young said confidently.

The doubles player said he continues to keep playing for as long as possible, predicting at least three more years on the courts.

“I’ll keep playing until I start embarrassing my partner,” he said.

Lt Young, who said he was feeling loved on his milestone birthday, celebrated with family and friends at a barbecue after his usual match of tennis on Tuesday morning.

“Everyone has been trying to squeeze things in,” he said. “I’m very lucky.”

“I have a very full life … I love my life.”