The world of tennis mourns the loss of Nicola ‘Nicky’ Chirinsky Pietrangeli, a revered pioneer of Italian tennis, who passed away at the age of 92. His death was confirmed by the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation, marking the end of an era for a player who significantly shaped the sport in Italy.
Pietrangeli remains an iconic figure in tennis history. He made his mark by becoming the first Italian to win a Grand Slam title, clinching the French Open in 1959, a feat he remarkably repeated in 1960. His achievements are amplified by the fact that he is the only Italian to be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
His prowess on the court was matched by his charm off it, where he mingled with society’s elite, including notable film stars of his time. However, it was Pietrangeli’s exceptional skill set, particularly his famous backhand and swift movement, that earned him legendary status, especially on clay surfaces. He was adept on the international stage, having reached the semifinals at Wimbledon in 1960 and consistently performing well in various tournaments.
Pietrangeli’s time in the Davis Cup was equally remarkable; he holds records for the most total wins and singles victories. His dedication was evident as he played 164 matches for Italy, achieving a singles record of 78 wins against 32 losses. He was instrumental in leading Italy to two Davis Cup finals as a player and later triumphantly captained the team to victory in 1976.
In 2023 and 2024, Italy celebrated back-to-back Davis Cup victories, and more recently, in 2025, Matteo Berrettini and Flavio Cobolli helped secure a third title on home soil in Bologna. Pietrangeli’s influence on Italian tennis endures; his legacy is cherished by players and fans alike.
Born in Tunis in 1933 to an Italian father and Russian mother, Pietrangeli’s early life was colored by the challenges of World War II. He began playing tennis within a prison camp during his father’s internment. Eventually moving to Rome, Pietrangeli followed his passion for tennis, marking his debut in the sport in the early 1950s.
In addition to his exceptional individual achievements, including a record of 42 doubles wins in the Davis Cup alongside Orlando Sirola, Pietrangeli demonstrated his leadership and commitment as a coach. He instilled a sense of national pride in young players, guiding Italy to international success and fostering the next generation of tennis stars.
His contributions were further commemorated when the Main Show Court at the Foro Italico was named in his honor, a fitting tribute for a player whose impact on the game remains indelible. Through his dedication to the sport, Pietrangeli personified the spirit of tennis in Italy, and his passing leaves a significant void in the tennis community.
Pietrangeli is survived by his three sons, Marco, Giorgio, and Filippo, and although he faced declining health in recent years, his legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of athletes. He will be remembered for both his sporting prowess and his vibrant personality, which made him a beloved figure among fans and players alike. The tennis world pays tribute to a true legend whose contributions will never be forgotten.
