Australian tennis icon Neale Fraser has handed away on the age of 91, Tennis Australia introduced on Tuesday.
Throughout his astonishing profession, the Australian loved large success throughout all Grand Slam competitions – having gained three titles in singles, 11 in males’s doubles and 5 in combined doubles.
Nevertheless, Fraser’s greatest success got here within the Davis Cup, the place he gained 4 consecutive titles as a participant between 1959-1962 earlier than additionally being Australia’s workforce captain for a document of 24 years – throughout which his nation gained 4 titles.
“I could never think of anything better than representing your country,” the Australian tennis legend used to say.
Neale Fraser© YouTube screenshot
Rod Laver pays tribute to Fraser
Laver, a fellow Australian tennis icon, was overwhelmed by Fraser within the 1960 Wimbledon. Reacting to the demise of former world No. 1, the previous 11-time Grand Slam champion mentioned he was “deeply saddened” and highlighted that he had nothing however main respect and appreciation for his ex-Davis Cup colleague.
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my dear mate and fellow lefty, Neale Fraser. He was a true gem in a golden era of Australian tennis legends – an incredible World No.1, a Grand Slam champion, and a Davis Cup icon. Neale bested me in 2 major finals, pushing me to become a better player. My heartfelt condolences go out to Thea and Neale’s extended family. I’ll miss you dearly, buddy. Rest in peace,” Laver wrote on X.
I’m deeply saddened to listen to of the passing of my pricey mate and fellow lefty, Neale Fraser. He was a real gem in a golden period of Australian tennis legends – an unimaginable World No.1, a Grand Slam champion, and a Davis Cup icon. Neale bested me in 2 main finals, pushing me to… pic.twitter.com/B4cVLEnRUk
— Rod Laver (@rodlaver) December 3, 2024
Pat Money, who was captined by Fraser for years, additionally had some variety and delightful phrases.
“He was like a father to me. He simply knew the way to make you are feeling necessary and play your greatest,” the 1987 Wimbledon champion said.
Fraser accomplished one very unique feat as he is the only player ever to win a Grand Slam in all competitions – he had at least two US Open titles in singles, men’s doubles and mixed doubles.
