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 received three titles in singles, 11 in males’s doubles and 5 in combined doubles.
Nevertheless, Fraser’s largest success got here within the Davis Cup, the place he received 4 consecutive titles as a participant between 1959-1962 earlier than additionally being Australia’s group captain for a document of 24 years – throughout which his nation received 4 titles.
“I may by no means consider something higher than representing your nation,” the Australian tennis legend used to say.
Rod Laver pays tribute to Fraser
Laver, a fellow Australian tennis icon, was overwhelmed by Fraser within the 1960 Wimbledon. Reacting to the loss of life of former world No. 1, the previous 11-time Grand Slam champion stated he was “deeply saddened” and highlighted that he had nothing however main respect and appreciation for his ex-Davis Cup colleague.
“I’m deeply saddened to listen to of the passing of my expensive 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 grow to be a greater participant. My heartfelt condolences exit to Thea and Neale’s prolonged household. I’ll miss you dearly, buddy. Relaxation in peace,” Laver wrote on X.
I’m deeply saddened to listen to of the passing of my expensive 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 sort and delightful phrases.
“He was like a father to me. He simply knew the best way to make you are feeling necessary and play your finest,” the 1987 Wimbledon champion stated.
Fraser completed one very distinctive feat as he’s the one participant ever to win a Grand Slam in all competitions – he had at the very least two US Open titles in singles, males’s doubles and combined doubles.
