Overview
- The Italian Tennis Federation confirmed his death on Monday at age 92, with Rome Masters organizers also offering condolences.
- He became Italy’s first Grand Slam singles champion by winning Roland-Garros in 1959 and repeated the title in 1960.
- From 1954 to 1972 he set Italy’s Davis Cup benchmark with 120 wins in 164 matches, a national record that still stands.
- After retiring as a player, he captained Italy to the 1976 Davis Cup title over Chile, securing the nation’s long-sought trophy.
- Rome’s Foro Italico central court has carried his name since 2006, and messages of respect followed his death from figures including Rafael Nadal and Fabio Fognini.