Sports

‘Another sad day for Australian sport’ as tennis community mourns the loss of Neale Fraser

Matthew Hart
Dec 04, 2024
As news of Fraser's passing spread, fans and the sporting community united to pay tribute to a "legend of Australian sport".  Source: Michael Dodge/AAP PHOTOS.

The Australian tennis community is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic figures following the passing of Neale Fraser.

The Aussie tennis legend, who won 19 grand slam titles, sadly passed away on Tuesday, December 3 at the age of age 91.

Born October 3, 1933, Fraser perfected his powerful left hand serve on the clay courts next to his childhood home.

A fan of cricket, Fraser studied how leg-spin bowlers would turn the ball in different directions by cocking their wrists, a technique he adapted into his serve.

Competing during the golden era of Australian men’s tennis, Fraser initially struggled to secure a spot on the Davis Cup team and faced disappointment in three major singles finals, twice losing to his close friend Ashley Cooper – first at the 1957 Australian Championships and again at Wimbledon in 1958.

Fraser’s perseverance paid dividends in 1959 when he claimed all three US titles – singles, doubles, and mixed – at Forest Hills and guided Australia to a Davis Cup triumph.

It was in 1960, however, when Fraser secured tennis’ most coveted accolade after defeating Rod Laver in a memorable all-Australian Wimbledon men’s final.

He repeated the victory over Laver shortly after while defending the US Open crown he first won in 1959.

Fraser also amassed 16 grand slam doubles titles, completing the career slam in the men’s format, and claiming five mixed trophies.

Following his impressive career on the court, Fraser became Davis Cup captain for the Australian team, holding the captaincy for a record 24 years from 1970 to 1993.

During his time as captain, Fraser led Australia to four finals triumphs – in 1973, 1977, 1983 and 1986 – and recorded 55 wins from 75 ties played.

In recognition of his stellar career, Fraser was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1984.

As news of Fraser’s passing spread, fans and the sporting community united to pay tribute to a “legend of Australian sport”.

Fraser is survived by his wife Thea, his children and grandchildren.

-with AAP.

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