Australian tennis player who won six Grand Slam singles titles and was a dominant force in the sport during the 1930s. He was known for his aggressive playing style and strong volleys.
Known as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, Jack Crawford is remembered for his remarkable 1933 season, where he won the Australian Open, the French Open, and Wimbledon, only to fall agonizingly short of the Grand Slam title at the US Open. This Australian tennis legend's impressive career spanned over two decades, leaving an indelible mark on the tennis world.
Born on March 22, 1908, in Urangeline, New South Wales, Crawford was the second youngest child of Jack Sr. and Lottie Crawford. With no formal tennis training, he honed his skills by hitting against the house and school, and playing with his older brother. His natural talent soon shone through, as he won the Australian junior championships four consecutive times from 1926 to 1929, earning him permanent possession of the trophy.
Crawford's amateur career was nothing short of phenomenal. In 1931, 1932, and 1935, he won the Australian Open, cementing his position as a force to be reckoned with in tennis. His 1933 season was the most impressive, where he won the Australian Open, the French Open, and Wimbledon, becoming the world's top amateur player.
Tragically, Crawford's dreams of becoming the first tennis player to win the Grand Slam were shattered at the 1933 US Open. Leading Fred Perry in the final by two sets to one, his strength began to wane due to his asthmatic condition, and he eventually lost the match. Despite this heartbreak, Crawford's achievements continue to inspire generations of tennis players.
Jack Crawford's legacy extends beyond his impressive tennis career. He paved the way for Australian tennis players, inspiring a new generation of athletes to take up the sport. His remarkable 1933 season will forever be remembered as one of the greatest near-misses in tennis history.
Remembered as a true tennis icon, Jack Crawford's impact on the sport will continue to be felt for generations to come.
87 Years Old
A tennis legend and 11-time Grand Slam champion, known for his dominant playing style and coaching prowess, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.
89 Years Old
A tennis legend who won a record 28 Grand Slam titles, including 12 singles championships, and later coached tennis stars like Rod Laver and Margaret Court.
91 Years Old
A tennis legend who won 23 singles titles, including eight Grand Slam singles titles, and was one of the most successful players of the 1950s and 1960s. He's known for his exceptional volley and backhand.
91 Years Old
A dominant tennis player of the 1950s, winning 13 Grand Slam titles, including four Australian Open crowns, and renowned for his powerful serve and volley game.
92 Years Old
Australian tennis legend who won multiple Grand Slam titles and later became a successful coach, known for his dominant doubles play and mentoring of top players.
81 Years Old
Australian tennis legend and commentator, winner of 7 Grand Slam singles titles and 17 doubles titles, known for his dominant serve-and-volley game and charismatic on-court personality.
81 Years Old
A renowned tennis player and coach, known for winning 13 Grand Slam titles and coaching top players like Ivan Lendl and Roger Federer.
87 Years Old
Australian-American tennis player and sportscaster who won 18 Grand Slam titles and later became a prominent tennis commentator. Known for his charismatic on-court personality and insightful broadcasting style.
