Sam Groth’s Marriage Controversy: Tennis Star’s Romance Sparks Political Scandal Amid Inappropriate Behavior Claims

Allegations Surround Victorian Liberal Deputy Leader Sam Groth Over Relationship Timeline

Victorian Liberal deputy leader Sam Groth faces scrutiny after revelations his relationship with wife Brittany began when she was 16 or 17 years old, sparking accusations of inappropriate conduct. The former tennis star, then 23 or 24, met Brittany while coaching at Melbourne’s Templestowe Park Tennis Club in 2011 during a break from his professional career.

Under Victorian law, adults in supervisory roles are barred from sexual activity with 16- or 17-year-olds under their care. While no evidence confirms their relationship was sexual before Brittany turned 18 in April 2012, critics argue the age gap and Groth’s role at the club raise ethical concerns. A club source described Brittany as Groth’s “hitting partner” during her training, which involved 15–20 hours weekly.

[Image 1: Sam and Brittany Groth at a public event. Caption: The couple’s relationship has become a political flashpoint.]

Key Details and Legal Context
Groth has clarified he was not Brittany’s formal coach, and Daily Mail Australia does not assert any allegations as factual. In a 2017 interview, Groth stated they met during his hiatus from tennis: “We are from the same suburb… I was coaching, Brit was playing there a bit.” Brittany called their meeting “fate,” recalling, “He added me on Facebook immediately.”

[Image 2: Brittany playing tennis in 2013. Caption: Brittany Groth during her time at Templestowe Park Tennis Club.]

The legal focus centers on Victoria’s Child Employment Act, which prohibits supervisory adults from engaging sexually with minors under their authority. However, the term “supervisory role” remains undefined in this context. Groth’s political rivals claim the power dynamic was problematic, while supporters argue the criticism is politically motivated.

Political Reactions
Victorian Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas condemned the circumstances: “If you’re in a position of influence… the answer is no.” Premier Jacinta Allan called it a Liberal Party internal issue, stating, “Families shouldn’t be dragged into politics.”

Within Groth’s party, responses split. Liberal MP Bill Tilley initially dismissed the claims but later demanded accountability for leaks: “I want heads on sticks… absolute cowards.” Shadow Treasurer James Newbury defended Groth, calling attacks “disgraceful,” while ex-leader Matthew Guy labeled them “despicable.”

[Image 3: Groth and Brittany with their twin sons. Caption: The couple married in 2018 and welcomed twins in 2021.]

Groth’s Defense and Family
Groth, who divorced first wife Jarmila Wolfe in 2011, married Brittany in 2018. They have twin boys, Mason and Parker, born in 2021. He asserts his family is “off limits,” stating, “The fact they’re not [protected] says more about others.”

The controversy highlights tensions in the Victorian Liberal Party, with detractors framing it as evidence of internal dysfunction. MPs David Hodgett and Richard Riordan denied involvement in leaking information.

[Image 4: Groth and Brittany at the Melbourne Grand Prix. Caption: The couple maintains a low profile amid the political storm.]

Conclusion
While legal boundaries remain unclear without proof of misconduct, the allegations underscore challenges in balancing personal history with public office. Groth’s supporters emphasize privacy and family values, while critics question judgment in leadership roles. As debates continue, the saga reflects broader political rivalries and ethical debates in Victorian governance.

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