The tennis world mourns the death of a legend, Nick Bollettieri, who lost his life at the age of 91 ¹. Here are some key details about his life and legacy:
– Legendary Coach: Nick Bollettieri was a renowned tennis coach who worked with some of the biggest names in tennis, including Venus and Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, Andre Agassi, and Lleyton Hewitt.
– Founder of Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy: In 1978, Bollettieri founded the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy, which was later purchased by IMG Academy. The academy served as a launching pad for many tennis greats and evolved into an institution that has had a profound impact on the development of athletes across many sports at all levels.
– Impact on Tennis: Bollettieri’s influence on tennis is immense. He worked with 10 players who went on to become World No.1, including the Williams sisters, Agassi, Sharapova, Jim Courier, Monica Seles, Boris Becker, Pete Sampras, and Australia’s Hewitt.
– Tributes: The tennis world is mourning the loss of Bollettieri, with tributes pouring in from his former students, players, and coaches. Andre Agassi, one of the players he coached, wrote on Twitter, “Our dear friend, Nick Bollettieri, graduated from us last night. He gave so many a chance to live their dream. He showed us all how life can be lived to the fullest… Thank you, Nick.”
– Legacy: Bollettieri’s legacy extends beyond his coaching achievements. He was a pioneer, a visionary, a believer, and a leader. He was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2014, and six of the players he coached are also already in the Hall of Fame. His impact on tennis will be remembered for generations to come.
