MELBOURNE, Australia — Fred Stolle, a celebrated champion with two Grand Slam singles titles and an impressive collection of 17 major doubles trophies, has passed away at the age of 86, as announced by Tennis Australia on Thursday.
Recognized as an “iconic figure” in the world of tennis, Stolle made significant contributions both as a player and later as a commentator for Australia’s Nine Network and U.S. media outlets, noted Craig Tiley, CEO of Tennis Australia. The cause of his death has not been disclosed.
Standing tall at 1.91 meters (6-foot-3), Stolle was a key player during Australia’s golden age in tennis throughout the 1960s, a pivotal time when the sport was transitioning from amateurism to professionalism.
Affectionately known as “Fiery Fred,” he experienced early struggles in Grand Slam singles events, reaching the finals five times before securing his first victory—four of those defeats came at the hands of fellow Australian Roy Emerson. He faced consecutive heartbreaks in Wimbledon finals during 1963, 1964, and 1965.
Stolle’s breakthrough came on a surface he wasn’t particularly fond of—clay—when he triumphed at the 1965 French Championships, defeating Tony Roche in the final.
Reflecting on his journey, Stolle recalled to the Tennis Channel, “I lost a bunch of those to Emmo, but against anyone else, I felt at ease. The French was not my expected victory, but it was a thrilling moment for me.”
In 1966, at the U.S. Championships in Forest Hills, he claimed another all-Australian final victory against John Newcombe, becoming only the second unseeded player to seize the title while defeating three seeded players on his way to the final. Following this success, he ascended to the No. 1 ranking and transitioned to professional play.
Over the course of his career, Stolle amassed 10 men’s doubles Grand Slam titles from 1962 to 1969, partnering with legends like Bob Hewitt, Emerson, and Ken Rosewall—making him one of the few to conquer all four doubles majors.
His mixed doubles achievements were equally impressive, with seven major titles alongside partners such as Margaret Court, Lesley Turner Bowrey, and Ann Haydon Jones.
Stolle was instrumental in Australia’s Davis Cup victories in 1964, 1965, and 1966. One notable win was in 1964 in Cleveland, where he triumphed over American Dennis Ralston despite Australia trailing 2-1. The following year, he helped defend the title in Sydney, overcoming Spain’s Manolo Santana.
He coached American Vitas Gerulaitis to the 1977 Australian Open title and continued to compete in singles until 1982.
“Fred’s legacy is marked by excellence, commitment, and an unwavering passion for tennis,” Tiley shared. “The impact he made on the sport will forever be treasured by all who were fortunate enough to witness his remarkable contributions.”
An esteemed member of Australia’s Davis Cup squad, Stolle not only excelled in his playing career but also contributed significantly to the sport as a coach and insightful commentator.
Rod Laver, another Australian tennis legend with 11 major titles to his name, honored Stolle with a touching tribute on X, stating, “Fred Stolle was too good a person to hold a grudge. He achieved numerous Grand Slam victories and reached many more finals. It took the best to defeat the best. We shared countless memories of the past as we looked toward the future, always fueled by our love of the sport.”
Originally from Sydney, Stolle spent his later years residing in the United States after concluding his professional playing career.
Tennis Australia shared that he is survived by his beloved wife, Pat, his son Sandon—who also celebrated success at the U.S. Open in doubles—and his daughters Monique and Nadine.
