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.
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.
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.
Nick Bollettieri pioneered the concept of a tennis boarding school and his influence did wonders for the careers of many players.
Some Notable students of Nick Bollettieri:
| Serial No. | Player |
| 1 | Monica Seles |
| 2 | Jim Courier |
| 3 | Andre Agassi |
| 4 | Marcelo Rios |
| 5 | Venus Williams |
| 6 | Serena Williams |
| 7 | Mary Pierce |
| 8 | Anna Kournikova |
| 9 | Maria Sharapova |
| 10 | Jelena Jankovic |
| 11 | Max Mirnyi |
| 12 | Boris Becker |
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