Who is Gigi Fernandez? ‘Below Deck Med’ Season 9 guest is a 17-time champion
TAMPA, FLORIDA: In the upcoming third episode of 'Below Deck Mediterranean' Season 9, fans can look forward to meeting the latest primary charter guest, Gigi Fernandez, a renowned tennis star who has clinched an astounding 17 Grand Slam championships throughout her illustrious career.
Gigi, a former athlete hailing from Puerto Rico who proudly competed for the United States, gained widespread recognition for her exceptional skills in tennis, achieving victory in multiple prestigious tournaments and securing the coveted title of world number one. Throughout her illustrious career, she solidified her reputation as a formidable presence on the court, showcasing unparalleled talent and unwavering determination.
Since retiring from tennis in 1997, Gigi has shifted her focus to coaching and passing on her knowledge through various training programs and workshops all over the United States.
The tennis superstar has worked with top players such as former world No 1 doubles player Rennae Stubbs, Lisa Raymond, and Samantha Stosur, guiding the latter to her first Grand Slam victory at the 2005 US Open alongside Raymond.
In addition to coaching, Gigi has also been involved with the Puerto Rican national team and served as a coach for the University of South Florida. Gigi furthered her education by obtaining a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of South Florida in 2003, followed by a masters degree in business administration from Rollins College's Crummer School of Business.
She has also gained recognition for being the first Puerto Rican sports figure to receive the esteemed distinction of being inducted into the prestigious International Tennis Hall of Fame.
'Below Deck Mediterranean' Season 9: Gigi Fernandez previously appeared on 'Below Deck' Season 10
For those who may not be familiar, primary charter guest Gigi Fernandez made a previous appearance on Season 10 of 'Below Deck'. During her time on the show, she arrived on the yacht with her partner Jane Geddes and a group of friends.
Then, Gigi who identifies herself as a member of the LGBTQ+ community chose to celebrate her 57th birthday during the charter, taking a break from her busy schedule. The former tennis player is a mother of two children, son Karson Xavier and daughter Madison Jane.
'Below Deck Mediterranean' Season 9: Who is primary charter guest Gigi Fernandez's wife?
When discussing the personal life of Gigi Fernandez, the primary charter guest on 'Below Deck Mediterranean' Season 9, it is worth noting that she is married to Jane Geddes, a retired American professional golfer.
Geddes, born on February 5, 1960, had a successful career on the LPGA Tour, winning two major championships and 11 LPGA Tour events. After her golfing career, Geddes held various roles in the sports industry, including serving as Vice President of Talent Relations for WWE.
She also co-founded an e-commerce company and pursued higher education, earning degrees in criminology and law. Her career in golf administration continued as she took on roles within the LPGA Tour, eventually becoming Senior Vice President of Tournament Operations and Player Services.
She later transitioned to roles in leadership within the Executive Women's Golf Association and the International Association of Golf Administrators. Despite leaving these positions in 2019, Geddes has made significant contributions to the golf industry through her various roles and leadership positions.
What to expect from 'Below Deck Mediterranean' Season 9 Episode 3?
In 'Below Deck Mediterranean' Season 9 Episode 3, viewers will witness Captain Sandy Yawn gearing up to welcome back a well-known visitor with high expectations - the charter guest, Gigi Fernandez.
The title of the episode, 'Drifting Standards', suggests that the crew will face difficult challenges and have to meet high expectations. As they work on the luxury yacht, tensions will escalate as they try to satisfy Gigi's exacting standards.
Moreover, audiences will observe deckhand Nathan Gallagher and a guest inadvertently drifting too distant into the ocean, leading Captain Sandy to question her bosun's supervision. Furthermore, the main charter guest will express their disappointment with the cuisine not meeting their standards.
'Below Deck Mediterranean' Season 9 releases new episodes every Monday at 9 pm ET on Bravo
