Tributes to Nikola Pilić
Tributes are pouring in for Nikola Pilić, the renowned Croatian tennis figure and a pivotal contributor to the sport, who has passed away at the age of 86. According to the Croatian Tennis Association, Pilić died on a Monday, leaving behind a legacy as the first captain to lead three different nations to victory in the prestigious Davis Cup.
Legacy as a Player and Coach
Not only was he a legendary player, having reached the finals of the French Open in 1973, but he was also an influential coach. He played a significant role in shaping the careers of future tennis stars, including Novak Djokovic, who regarded him as a mentor.
In a notable incident in 1973, Pilić was at the center of controversy when he faced suspension from Wimbledon due to a Davis Cup dispute involving a match against New Zealand; this led to a boycott that saw 12 of the top 16 players abstain from the tournament.
Career Highlights
Pilić’s career took off during a transformative era in tennis, marked by the sport’s transition to professionalism in 1968. As a member of the ‘Handsome Eight’, he was among the first players to sign onto the World Championship Tennis tour, a movement supported by U.S. businessman Lamar Hunt.
Over his career, he secured nine singles titles and achieved a career-high singles ranking of No. 6, notably losing to Ilie Năstase in the 1973 French Open final. His prowess in doubles also shone through, with one of his most significant victories coming in 1970 when he clinched the U.S. Open title alongside partner Pierre Barthes.
Coaching Achievements
After retiring from professional play in 1978, Pilić transitioned into coaching, leading teams to Davis Cup triumphs with Germany in 1988, 1989, and 1993, as well as with Croatia in 2005 and Serbia in 2010. His contributions to the sport and his commitment to nurturing young talent have left an indelible mark on tennis history.
