CNN
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Nick Bollettieri, famous tennis The coach who coached the Williams sisters Andre Agassi and Maria Sharapova, among others, has died at the age of 91.
Bollettieri’s death was confirmed by the IMG Academy, of which Bollettieri was the founder, in a statement sent to CNN.
“Anyone who knows Nick knows how much he loves developing young people, coaching tennis and the academy,” said Tim Penetti, president of IMG Academy Bradenton Academy, a division of IMG Academy.
“Even in his final days, you could often see him on campus, mentoring and mentoring young student-athletes and staff with the enthusiasm and enthusiasm he had in his 20s. Our tribute to his wife, Cindi, and his The children express their condolences. He had a permanent and lasting impact on all of us.”
Tommy Haas, former world number two and one of Bollettieri’s former students, release A heartfelt tribute on Instagram.
“Too many memories, I don’t know where to start. Nickiiiiii, this is the longest I’ve been calling you,” Haas wrote.
“Thank you for your time, knowledge, commitment, expertise, willingness to share your skills, your personal interest in mentoring me and giving me the best chance to achieve my dreams. You are a dreamer and doer, too A pioneer in our sport and truly unique.
“I’ll definitely miss you at the academy, our tennis conversations, the tanned skin, white teeth and body fat, watching you do tai chi, miss playing golf with you, watching you cheat, eater Racks and runs for the bush, hear all your plans, even at 91.
“Thanks again for all you do…..RIP Nickiiiiii.”
Born in Pelham, New York, Bollettieri turned his attention to tennis coaching to earn money part-time while studying for a law degree at the University of Miami. He previously served as a football quarterback in high school and as a paratrooper in the Army.
He founded the Nick Politieri Tennis Academy—now the IMG Academy—in 1977 after borrowing $1 million from friends to build a residential tennis academy for his students.
During his coaching career of more than 30 years, Bollettieri became one of the most popular coaches in world tennis because of the success of his players.
The academy has since expanded to other men’s and women’s sports, including baseball, football and soccer.
year 2006, In an interview with CNN World Sportthe famous coach lays out his vision for successful athletes and how they must embrace change.
“The physical and mental part of the game can’t be second to your playing time,” he said. “You have to be passionate about the game and fight for every point.”
Before being inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2014, he coached multiple Grand Slam winners and 10 world No. 1 players, including Agassi, the Williams sisters, Sharapova, Boris Becker, Mo Nika Seles and Anna Kournikova.
2011 Wimbledon runner-up and former world number 12 Sabina Lischi paid tribute to Bollettieri on her social media, Say: “Thanks Nick.”
“It’s hard to find the right words, I’m not sure I’ll be able to,” the German wrote.
“You have given so many kids a place to work towards their dreams. Support them with your knowledge and believe that anything is possible. I have been blessed to be a part of it. Together we have created so many memories that I will cherish forever .
“You shaped the game of tennis, and just a few months ago, at 92, you told me what was next for you.
“You will be dearly missed. Rest in peace, Nicky.”
Jimmy Arias, former world No. 5 and one of Bollettieri’s original pupils, also paid tribute.
“Tennis wouldn’t be where it is today without Nick’s influence,” Arias said.
“His Tennis Academy, which I had the privilege of growing up in, has not only been the launching pad for many tennis greats, but has evolved into an institution that has had a profound impact on the development of athletes in many sports at all levels.”