Tributes flow as Aussie tennis icon ‘Fiery’ Fred Stolle dies at 86

Giants of the tennis world have paid their respects after the death of a legendary figure on the court and in the commentary booth.

Fred Stolle, a legend on the tennis court and in the commentary booth, has died at the age of 86.

The man with the memorable – and ironic – nickname of “Fiery”, Stolle’s death has led to an outpouring of grief from the tennis world, led by former teammate and great friend Rod Laver.

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Born in Hornsby in NSW in 1938, Stolle turned his back on cricket and rugby union to focus on tennis after being a ball boy at a Davis Cup tie between Italy and the United States in 1951.

He progressed through the ranks and would lose five consecutive grand slam singles finals before breaking through at the 1965 French Open.

He added the US Open title the following year and achieved some of his best results in doubles, claiming 10 major doubles titles and another seven mixed doubles crowns.

Fred Stolle (far left) helped Australia win three Davis Cup titles. Photo: Herald Sun

Some of Stolle’s most cherished moments were as a member of the Australian Davis Cup team, once stating “to play for Australia meant everything to me”.

He helped his nation claim three straight Davis Cup titles from 1964-66 in a golden era of Aussie tennis.

After his career on the court came to a close, Stolle made a seamless transition into the commentary booth and became known to a generation of tennis fans for his insight and humour alongside the likes of John Newcombe and Tony Trabert.

Laver, 86, led the tributes with an emotional post on X.

“As I wrote in my book on the Golden Era of Aussie tennis, Fred Stolle was too nice a guy to hold a grudge,” he wrote.

“He won many grand slams and was in the finals of many more.

Fred Stolle, Bjorn Borg and Rod Laver. Photo: X

“It took the best to beat the best. We never tired of reliving the past as we travelled the world looking into the future with an enduring love of the sport. You will be missed, Fiery, RIP.”

Paul McNamee, like Stolle a former doubles world No. 1, also wrote a beautiful tribute on X.

“Fiery Fred Stolle is no longer with us. What a player, what a commentator, what a bloke,” he posted.

“One of that great group of Aussie tennis players who made history, and whose legacy is perhaps unrivalled.

“Thank you Fred for your wit, your friendship and for just being you. We’ll miss you.”

Compatriot Liz Smylie, who won the 1985 Wimbledon doubles title, wrote: “Very sad news to hear of the passing of Fred Stolle.

Stolle forged another legendary career in the commentary box.

“A champion player and person whose knowledge, generosity and expertise in the booth was legendary. He’ll be missed by all of us who knew and loved him.”

Craig Tiley, chief executive of Tennis Australia and director of the Australian Open, offered: “When we speak about Australia’s golden era and the progression from amateur to professional, Stolle’s name is right up there with the best. RIP Fiery.”

Veteran sports writer and author Christopher Clarey added: “Fred Stolle, one of the very good ones, is gone at 86.

“Did so much for tennis at home in Australia and abroad. An iconic player and commentator.

“I enjoyed all of our conversations. He was great company.”

Stolle is survived by wife Pat, son and fellow tennis player Sandon, plus daughters Monique and Nadine.

Originally published as Tributes flow as Aussie tennis icon ‘Fiery’ Fred Stolle dies at 86