Tennis Icon Nicola Pietrangeli Remembered in Rome Memorial

Rome, Dec 4 (AP) Hundreds of admirers gathered to honor the memory of tennis legend Nicola Pietrangeli, who passed away at the age of 92. A public viewing and a memorial service in his honor took place at the tennis court named after him, ahead of a private funeral in Rome.

The celebrated Pallacorda court at Foro Italico, also known for its picturesque setting, was renamed Stadio Pietrangeli in 2006. This iconic venue served as the backdrop for the ceremonies. Pietrangeli's coffin, adorned with blue and white flowers, was accompanied by two tennis rackets and the Davis Cup Italy won under his leadership in 1976.

Images from Pietrangeli's illustrious career flashed on a large screen, accompanied by the melodies of Charles Aznavour, one of his favorite artists. “My Way” by Frank Sinatra marked the ceremony's conclusion as the procession moved from the court to the church for the funeral.

His son Marco remarked, “Everything just as he wanted, the place and the music.” The event saw the attendance of distinguished figures from Italian sports, including both the former and current presidents of the Italian National Olympic Committee and the head of the Italian Tennis Federation.

Among the mourners was Prince Albert II of Monaco, a close friend of Pietrangeli. The prince expressed his emotions, saying, “I knew him for many years. He was a splendid man. I really wanted to be here also for his family, I am very emotional. He was always there in the most important moments of my life.”

Adriano Panatta and Tonino Zugarelli, both Davis Cup champions alongside Pietrangeli, attended the service, joined by the likes of former tennis player Fabio Fognini, who recently retired. Notably absent were the current Italian tennis players, including Jannik Sinner.

Nicola Pietrangeli, a trailblazer for Italian tennis, made history as the first Italian to win a Grand Slam singles title at the French Championships in 1959 and 1960. His Davis Cup record is unparalleled, boasting the most total wins and singles victories from 66 ties spanning 1954 to 1972. Pietrangeli's impressive singles record stood at 78-32 and his doubles record at 42-12.

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