- Grand Slam champion went to the 'Tennis voice'
- He also won the Davis glasses with Australia in a star race
The world of tennis is mourning for the death of Grand Slam's winner, turned into a television star, Fred Stolle, known as La Voz del Deporte when he changed his racket for the microphone of a commentator.
The winner of the France Open and the United States died at age 86 and has been acclaimed as a true great game for his work on and off the court.
Born in Sydney, Stolle was included in the Hall of Fame of International Tennis in 1985 and made the Australian Sport Hall of Fame in 1988.
He won a total of 19 Grand Slam titles, including the Singles Crown in Roland Garros in 1965 and Flushing Meadow in 1966, and added 17 double titles during the 1960s.
Stolle also reached the Singles final at the Australian Open in 1964 and 1965, since it was classified as the number 1 fan in the world in 1966.
He won the Davis Cup with Australia in 1964, 1965 and 1966, then saying that playing for his country “meant everything for me.”
Fred Stolle (in the photo playing in 1971) was an Australian tennis giant as a player and the sport voice through his television work
The Sydneysider (in the photo with Novak Djokovic at the 2015 France Open) was included in the International Tennis Hall of Fame
Stolle (in the photo with Pete Sampras) was possibly the best color commentator in the game during his distinguished career
When they finished their game days, he focused his attention on training and guided the best player Vitas Gerulaitis from 1977 to 1983.
But possibly he is better known for his work as possibly the best color commentator in sport while working for channel nine and ESPN.
“When we talk about the golden era of Australia and the progression of professionalism fan, Stolle's name is up to the best,” said Tennis Australia CEO, Craig Tiley, after the sad news was learned.
'Star member of the Australian Davis Cup team, Fred made significant contributions to sport after his decorated career, as a cunning coach and commentator.
'His legacy is one of excellence, dedication and a deep love for tennis. Its impact on sport will be remembered and appreciated by all those who had the privilege of witnessing their contributions.
“Our thoughts and the deepest sympathies are with Fred's family and friends during this sad moment.”
More to come …