Rome, December 1, 2025 - Italian tennis legend Nicola Pietrangeli, widely regarded as one of the nation's greatest athletes, has died at the age of 92. Born in Tunis on September 11, 1933, to an Italian father and a Russian mother, Pietrangeli left an indelible mark on the world of tennis, both as a player and a captain.
Pietrangeli's career was defined by his elegance and prowess on clay courts. He captured two French Open singles titles in 1959 and 1960, becoming the first and only Italian to win the prestigious Parisian tournament. In 1959, he defeated Neale Fraser to win his first Grand Slam title, and in 1960, he triumphed again, solidifying his place among the tennis elite. Pietrangeli also reached the French Open final in 1961 and 1964, demonstrating his sustained dominance on the red clay. His success wasn't limited to singles; he won the French Open men's doubles title in 1959 with Orlando Sirola and the mixed doubles title in 1958.
Beyond his French Open triumphs, Pietrangeli claimed the Italian Open title twice, in 1957 and 1961. He also excelled at the Mediterranean Games, securing a gold medal in singles and a bronze in doubles in 1963. His elegant playing style, highlighted by a beautiful one-handed backhand, captivated fans and earned him accolades from critics.
Pietrangeli's impact extended far beyond individual accolades. He proudly represented Italy in the Davis Cup from 1954 to 1972, playing a record 164 matches and winning a record 120. Although he couldn't lead Italy to victory as a player, reaching the finals in 1960 and 1961, he later captained the team to their first-ever Davis Cup title in 1976. This victory, a 4-1 win over Chile in Santiago, remains a historic moment for Italian tennis.
His contributions to tennis were recognized with his induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1986. In 2006, the tennis stadium in Foro Italico, Rome, was named in his honor, a rare tribute for a living athlete. He was also awarded the "Golden Crab" as Italy's most elegant athlete.
In his later years, Pietrangeli remained a beloved figure in Italian sports. He spoke multiple languages fluently, including English, Spanish, French, and Russian. Before Jannik Sinner's rise, Pietrangeli's records remained unchallenged for decades. He holds the record for the most Davis Cup appearances and wins.
Pietrangeli's death marks the end of an era for Italian tennis. His skill on the court, sportsmanship, and contributions to the Davis Cup team have cemented his place as a true icon of the sport. He was more than just a tennis player; he was a symbol of Italian pride and a legend whose influence will continue to inspire generations.
