Tennis great Neale Fraser remembered as ‘towering figure’ in Australian sport

An Australian tennis icon who won Wimbledon and the US Open singles titles has died at the age of 91.

Neale Fraser watches his players practice in 1987 is his role as Australia’s Davis Cup captain. Picture: Stuart Hannagan

Tennis great Neale Fraser has been remembered as a “towering figure in Australian sport” following his death at the age of 91.

Melbourne-born Fraser won three Grand Slam singles titles – the 1959 and 1960 US Opens, and the 1960 Wimbledon crown.

The former world No.1 singles player also won a combined total of 16 Grand Slam doubles and mixed doubles titles.

Fraser also tasted success as Australia’s Davis Cup captain, leading the nation to glory in 1973, 1977, 1983 and 1986.

In 1986, Fraser was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame as an athlete member for his contribution to tennis, and is one of just seven people who are dual members, having also been recognised for his contribution to tennis administration.

A true legend of Australian tennis, who will be missed by so many around the world 💚💛

Vale Neale Fraser. pic.twitter.com/AGSAmG8aRJ

— TennisAustralia (@TennisAustralia) December 3, 2024

“It is with deep sadness that we mark the passing of Neale Fraser AO MBE, a towering figure in Australian sport and an esteemed chair of the Sport Australia Hall of Fame,” current Sport Australia Hall of Fame chairman John Bertrand said.

“Neale was not only a remarkable athlete but a man of immense character and leadership.

“It was an honour to follow in his footsteps as chair, and I will always cherish the memory of him presenting the SAHOF flag, signed by Sir Donald Bradman, which now holds pride of place in our office at the MCG.”

Wimbledon champion Pat Cash said Fraser was “like a father to me”.

“He just knew how to make you feel important and play your best,” Cash said of Fraser, who was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1984.

Originally published as Tennis great Neale Fraser remembered as ‘towering figure’ in Australian sport