AUSTRALIAN tennis great Neale Fraser has passed away aged 91.
News of the 19-time Grand Slam winner’s passing came to light on Tuesday morning.
The cause of the former World No.1’s death, however, is currently unknown.
Tributes for the later Fraser have poured in from around the world, including one from former rival and fellow Aussie great Rod Laver.
Laver wrote on X: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my dear mate and fellow lefty, Neale Fraser.
“He was a true gem in a golden era of Australian tennis legends – an incredible World No.1, a Grand Slam champion, and a Davis Cup icon.
“Neale bested me in 2 major finals, pushing me to become a better player.
“My heartfelt condolences go out to Thea and Neale’s extended family. I’ll miss you dearly, buddy. Rest in peace.”
Tennis Australia wrote: “A true legend of Australian tennis, who will be missed by so many around the world.
“Vale Neale Fraser.”
Sport Australia Hall of Fame wrote: “The Sport Australia Hall of Fame is mourning the passing of esteemed Member, and former Chair, Neale Fraser AO MBE.
“An icon of the sport of tennis, Neale is known to have inspired many of the greats of Australian tennis.”
Former doubles World No.1 Paul McNamee said: “Vale Neale Fraser, Wimbledon & US Open singles champ & our wonderful Davis Cup captain.
“If there’s one person who embodied Davis Cup, it was Frase.
“Condolences to his beautiful wife Thea, and to his extended family.
‘The tennis world thanks you deeply, and will miss you Frase.”
One tennis fan wrote: “Neale Fraser is the dictionary definition of the term True Gentleman.”
The late Fraser’s incredible haul of 19 Grand Slam titles, 11 of which came in doubles tournaments, made him one of Australia’s most decorated players.
The most memorable of his three individual titles came in the 1960 all-Australian Wimbledon final against Laver, who he beat a few months later to retain the US Championships trophy.
He helped Australia to four straight Davis Cup titles from 1959 to 1962, although he really forged his legacy for his country when he became captain in 1970.
He held the captaincy for a staggering 24 YEARS – from 1970 to 1993 – and masterminded four tournament victories.
And the success he achieved for his nation is one of the achievements he was most fond of.
He often said: “I could never think of anything better than representing your country.”
Fraser is survived by his wife, Thea, their children and grandchildren.
