Biographie
Pancho Gonzales, born Richard Alonzo Gonzales in Los Angeles, California, on May 9, 1928, was a champion professional tennis player. He started playing tennis at age 12 and, aside from a few tips from a high school friend, never took formal lessons. By 15, he was the top-ranked player in California's boys' division. Gonzales left high school to focus on tennis, and except for a two-year service in the US Navy from 1945 to 1947, he played full-time. His first tour in 1947 saw him ranked 17th nationally despite not winning major titles. The following year, he improved significantly, winning several regional tournaments and the national clay-court championship. In September, he claimed the prestigious lawn-tennis singles title at Forest Hills, NY.
In 1949, Gonzales won titles on clay, grass, indoor singles, and mixed doubles—an achievement rare among players. That year, he represented the US Davis Cup team and soon turned professional. Between then and his retirement in 1961, he held the world championship title eight times. Known for his powerful play, agility, and diverse return shots, he garnered a large fan base not only for his skill but also for his friendly, approachable demeanor, contrasting with many of his contemporaries who were often aloof and dismissive toward fans.
After retiring in 1961, Gonzales coached the US Davis Cup team and served as the resident pro at a resort in Nassau, Bahamas. He occasionally returned to professional play starting in 1968, and in 1969, at age 41, he won a marathon 112-game match at Wimbledon against a much younger opponent.
