4 December 2024 | Tennis Victoria

Tennis Victoria joins the wider tennis community in mourning the passing of Neale Fraser, a true legend in the sport of tennis and one of our most celebrated athletes. Fraser will leave behind a truly extraordinary legacy not only as a player but as a coach and a trailblazer in Victorian tennis.

Born and raised in Victoria, Fraser’s impact on tennis transcended onto the global scale, however his roots remained well imbedded in his home state, where his passion for the game started. A champion of Wimbledon, The US Open, and The Davis Cup, Fraser’s notable career saw his rise to World No. 1 in the late 1950s and early 1960s. He went on to inspire generations of Tennis fans with his lethal left-handed game and tireless commitment to greatness, both on and off the court.

As the captain of the Australian Davis Cup team for nearly two decades, Fraser embodied the spirit of being a Victorian: hardworking, humble, and fiercely competitive. His contributions expanded far beyond his playing days, guiding new waves of talent with the same commitment and drive that defined his career.

Fraser’s impact on Victorian Tennis was indelible. He drove grassroots initiatives, promoted development in the younger generation and remained a loyal supporter of clubs across Victoria. His determination in creating a love for tennis at all levels is an endowment that will help Tennis continue to thrive across the state and nationally.

Fraser’s outstanding achievements have been acknowledged with many acclaims, including his induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame and his appointment as a Companion of the Order of Australia. However, regardless of his eminence, he always stayed true to his Victorian roots, donating his time to regularly attending local events and mentoring aspiring players.

As we reflect on Fraser’s career, celebrate his life and the permanent mark he left on Victorian tennis, our condolences are with his family, friends, and all who had the honour of knowing this extraordinary man.

Neale Fraser’s legacy will forever remain an important part of Victorian tennis.

Vale Neale.