Australian tennis icon Neale Fraser dies at 91, Rod Laver pays tribute

Yesterday at 04:14 AM

Australian tennis icon Neale Fraser has passed away at the age of 91, Tennis Australia announced on Tuesday.

During his astonishing career, the Australian enjoyed massive success across all Grand Slam competitions - having won three titles in singles, 11 in men's doubles and five in mixed doubles. 

However, Fraser's biggest success came in the Davis Cup, where he won four consecutive titles as a player between 1959-1962 before also being Australia's team captain for a record of 24 years - during which his nation won four titles. 

“I could never think of anything better than representing your country,” the Australian tennis legend used to say.

Laver, a fellow Australian tennis icon, was beaten by Fraser in the 1960 Wimbledon. Reacting to the death of former world No. 1, the former 11-time Grand Slam champion said he was "deeply saddened" and highlighted that he had nothing but major respect and appreciation for his ex-Davis Cup colleague.

"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," 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… pic.twitter.com/B4cVLEnRUk

— Rod Laver (@rodlaver) December 3, 2024

Pat Cash, who was captined by Fraser for years, also had some kind and beautiful words.

“He was like a father to me. He just knew how to make you feel important and play your best," the 1987 Wimbledon champion said.

Fraser accomplished one very unique feat as he is the only player ever to win a Grand Slam in all competitions - he had at least two US Open titles in singles, men's doubles and mixed doubles.