The tennis world is in mourning. Nicola Pietrangeli, an iconic figure in Italian tennis and a true icon of the European circuit in the 1950s and 1960s, has passed away at the age of 91. A two-time winner of the French Open and a three-time finalist, he leaves behind a tremendous legacy in the history of the sport.
A Champion Closely Linked to France
If Nicola Pietrangeli holds such a special place in sporting memory, it is notably thanks to his love affair with the French Open Roland-Garros.
Winner in 1959 and 1960, finalist in 1961 and 1964, he remains one of the most successful players on Parisian clay to this day.
His elegant style, precise volleys, and impressive physical resilience left a mark on an entire generation of enthusiasts. In France, he remains one of the most beloved foreign players of the pre-Open era.
A European Tennis Figure
Before the rise of Barazzutti, Panatta, or even Fognini, Pietrangeli was for a long time the face of Italian tennis.
Beyond his individual achievements, he led his country to two memorable Davis Cup finals and contributed to the growth of European tennis in the post-war period.
Many French players, including Pierre Darmon and Jean Borotra, regularly praised his talent and sportsmanship. The announcement of his passing immediately elicited emotional reactions from the French Tennis Federation and former champions like Yannick Noah and Henri Leconte.
A Strong Presence on the French Riviera
Throughout his career, Pietrangeli also maintained a strong connection with the French Riviera.
A regular at the Monte-Carlo Country Club, he participated annually in amateur tournaments and exhibitions organized in the Principality.
His name remains associated with the golden age of Mediterranean tennis, at a time when Nice, Menton, and Monaco hosted some of the continent’s greatest players for competitions that have since disappeared.
A Loss That Affects Tennis Enthusiasts
For many French fans, Nicola Pietrangeli represented a tennis of elegance, technical virtuosity, and respect for the game.
In an era dominated by power, his more artistic approach to tennis remains a benchmark.
“He helped build the myth of Roland-Garros,” said a former FFT official this morning.
“For many of us, he is one of those champions who gave soul to the Parisian clay.”
A Lasting Legacy
Nicola Pietrangeli leaves behind an impressive record:
- 2 titles at the French Open
- 3 additional finals in Paris
- 2 semifinals at Wimbledon
- Dozens of international titles before the Open era
- And a lasting influence on European tennis
His name will forever remain etched in the history of the sport, in Italy as well as in France.
