Nicola Pietrangeli: A Tennis Legend Passes Away
Nicola Pietrangeli, celebrated tennis icon of the 1950s and 1960s, has passed away at the age of 92. The Italian Tennis and Padel Federation made the announcement on Monday, though the specific circumstances surrounding his death have not been disclosed. Pietrangeli is remembered not only as a prolific player but also as the most accomplished player in the history of the Davis Cup, holding records that still stand today.
Grand Slam Achievements
Pietrangeli etched his name in tennis history by being the first Italian to clinch a Grand Slam title, successfully winning the French Open in 1959. He defended that title in 1960, establishing a benchmark with his two Grand Slam singles victories that would stand until Jannik Sinner surpassed him with a total of three titles by winning his second Australian Open in 2025. To date, Sinner has added a total of four major championships to his resume.
Career Reflections
“I won $150 for the 1960 title, which covered two months’ rent for my home in Rome,”
highlighting the humble earnings of players from that era. Despite his success, Pietrangeli faced challenging moments in his career, finishing as runner-up at Roland Garros twice, in 1961 and 1964, against the formidable Spanish player Manuel Santana. He also experienced victory on the doubles court in 1959 alongside Orlando Sirola.
Davis Cup Legacy
Notably, Pietrangeli was a crucial player for Italy in the Davis Cup, participating in 164 matches across 66 ties. His record of 78 singles and 42 doubles victories stands unmatched, and he solidified a remarkable partnership with Sirola that remains noteworthy in doubles history. Although Pietrangeli led Italy to the Davis Cup finals on two occasions, both efforts resulted in loss against a powerful Australian team that included legends Rod Laver and Roy Emerson.
Captaincy and Later Years
However, in 1976, Pietrangeli achieved a pivotal role as captain, leading a talented group of Italian players, including Adriano Panatta, to win the Davis Cup against Chile during a politically tumultuous time under the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet. He played an integral role in the decision for Italy to compete in Chile, stating,
“That was really my biggest contribution for that final,”
advocating for the team’s presence which ultimately led to their victory. After a long hiatus, Italy reclaimed the trophy under Jannik Sinner’s leadership in 2023 and 2024, and then again under Matteo Berrettini and Flavio Cobolli in 2023.
Legacy and Honors
Post-retirement, Pietrangeli continued to support Italian tennis and became a revered figure at the Italian Open, a tournament he once triumphed in. To honor his contributions, the Pallacorda court at the Foro Italico was renamed Stadio Pietrangeli in 2006, delighting him with the recognition. He expressed a desire for his funeral to take place on that very court, securing a lasting connection to Italian tennis.
