Tennis

Tommy Haas confirms the demise of his mentor Nick Bollettieri

Published by

The current Indian Wells tournament director Tommy Haas shared the unfortunate news of Nick Bollettieri’s passing away via an Instagram post.

Nick Bollettieri was a legendary tennis coach who guided the likes of Maria Sharapova, Andre Agassi, Monica Seles, Venus and Serena Williams to greatness. He was one of the most respected coaches in the tennis fraternity and his contributions to the sport are second to none.

Young Tommy Haas with Nick Bollettieri (Image: Tommy Haas IG post)

Many rumors began to do the rounds about Bollettieri’s demise last month but the 91-year-old had denied the same. Tommy Haas, who is a former world No. 2, wrote an emotional tribute for Bollettieri, confirming the demise of the stalwart. The 44-year-old former player thanked Bollettieri for mentoring him and giving him a platform to chase his dreams.

“So many memories, i am not sure where to begin. Nickiiii, that’s how i have called you for the longest time. Thank you for your time, knowledge, commitment, expertise, the willingness to share your skill, your personal interest in mentoring me, and giving me the best opportunity to follow my dreams,” wrote Tommy Haas on Instagram.

“You were a dreamer and a doer, and a pioneer in our sport, truly one of a kind. I surely will miss you around the academy, our Tennis talks, miss showing of your tan, white teeth and body fat, miss watching you do Tai Chi, miss playing Golf with you watching you try to cheat, eating a Snickers bar and running for the bushes, and hearing all about your plans even at the age of 91. Thanks again for everything………RIP Nickiiii,” Haas added.

Related Post

Haas trained at the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy which was the breeding ground for many talented players that went on to have successful tennis careers.

Taking a look at some of the most notable students of Nick Bollettieri

Nick Bollettieri pioneered the concept of a tennis boarding school and his influence did wonders for the careers of many players.

Nick Bollettieri (Image Credit: Nick Bollettieri)

Some Notable students of Nick Bollettieri:

Serial No.Player
1Monica Seles
2Jim Courier
3Andre Agassi
4Marcelo Rios
5Venus Williams
6Serena Williams
7Mary Pierce
8Anna Kournikova
9Maria Sharapova
10Jelena Jankovic
11Max Mirnyi
12Boris Becker

More Tennis news

Follow our dedicated Tennis page for instant Tennis news and updates

Share
Published by