Australian tennis player who won 19 Grand Slam titles, including two singles titles, and was a key figure in the development of the game in the 1930s and 1940s.
John Bromwich, an Australian tennis legend, is widely regarded as one of the first great players to master the two-handed backhand, a shot that would become a hallmark of his illustrious career. With a career spanning over two decades, Bromwich left an indelible mark on the tennis world, winning two Australian Championships singles titles and earning a reputation as a world-class doubles player.
Bromwich's impressive tennis career was punctuated by numerous highlights, including his 1939 Australian Championships singles title, which he won by defeating Adrian Quist in straight sets. He repeated this feat in 1946, defeating Dinny Pails in a thrilling five-set final. His exceptional skills on the court earned him a world No. 3 ranking in 1938 and again in 1947.
While Bromwich excelled in singles, it was in doubles that he truly shone. With an uncanny ability to read the game and exceptional court coverage, he won an impressive 13 men's doubles titles and 4 mixed doubles titles in the majors. His doubles partnership with fellow Australian, Vivian McGrath, was particularly formidable, with the duo dominating the doubles circuit in the 1940s.
In one of the most memorable moments of his career, Bromwich played a crucial role in Australia's historic Davis Cup victory in 1939. Trailing 0-2 after the first day, Bromwich's stunning win over American Frank Parker in straight sets helped Australia come back to win the tie 3-2. This remains the only time in Davis Cup history that the winning team has overcome a 0-2 deficit to win the final.
In 1948, Bromwich came agonizingly close to winning the Wimbledon singles title, but ultimately fell short against American Bob Falkenburg. Despite having championship points, Bromwich was unable to convert them, and Falkenburg staged a dramatic comeback to win the title.
John Bromwich's remarkable tennis career, marked by numerous achievements and a legacy that continues to inspire, has cemented his place as one of Australia's greatest tennis players of all time.
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.
83 Years Old
Australian tennis legend and minister, winner of 24 Grand Slam singles titles, including a record 11 Australian Open titles, and a pioneer for women's tennis.
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.
98 Years Old
Australian tennis legend who won 22 Grand Slam titles, including five singles crowns, and was ranked world No. 1 in 1951-1952.
96 Years Old
Australian tennis player who won the 1952 Wimbledon men's doubles title and was a key figure in the country's Davis Cup victories in the 1950s. He was also a talented singles player, reaching the quarterfinals of several Grand Slam tournaments.
Born in 1921
A pioneering female tennis player who won multiple Grand Slam titles, including the 1946 Australian Open, and was a trailblazer for women's tennis in the post-war era.