Neale Fraser, the Australian tennis legend and former Wimbledon champion, has passed away at the age of 91.
Fraser won the Wimbledon singles title in 1960, along with the US National Championships in 1959 and 1960, during tennis’s amateur era.
In addition to his singles success, he claimed 11 men’s doubles and five mixed doubles Grand Slam titles. He also became the world number one in men’s singles in 1959.
A key figure in Australia’s Davis Cup history, Fraser was part of four victorious teams as a player and later served as captain for 24 years, leading the team to an additional four titles.
Tennis Australia paid tribute to Fraser, calling him a “true legend of Australian tennis,” whose legacy will be felt globally.
Fraser’s career included victories over Rod Laver in both the Wimbledon and US Open finals of 1960.
Laver, deeply saddened by his friend’s passing, described Fraser as a world number one, Grand Slam champion, and Davis Cup icon.
He added that Fraser’s victories over him in two major finals pushed him to become a better player.
Pat Cash, who played under Fraser’s captaincy during Australia’s Davis Cup victories in 1983 and 1986, spoke fondly of him as a mentor, noting that Fraser had a special ability to inspire players to perform at their best.
