The world of tennis is mourning the loss of Lea Pericoli, the celebrated Italian tennis star who brought flair and elegance to the courts during the 1950s and 60s.
She was known for her unique combination of athletic prowess and stylish appearance, Pericoli passed away at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy that extended far beyond her achievements in tennis.
Born in Milan on March 22, 1935, Pericoli rose to prominence in the tennis world as one of Italy’s top players, known for her fierce competitiveness and trailblazing style. She competed at the highest levels of international tennis, reaching the last 16 of the French Open twice, as well as the fourth round of Wimbledon three times. Her presence on the court was synonymous with grace and sophistication, not only in her play but in her choice of outfits.
Pericoli is often remembered for her striking and theatrical tennis attire, which included dresses adorned with feathers, furs, and flamboyant designs. At Wimbledon, one of the world’s most traditional and prestigious tournaments, Pericoli defied convention by bringing high fashion to the game. Her outfits became so iconic that she was regarded as the “diva of the courts,” capturing the imagination of fans and photographers alike.
Her Tennis Career
Lea Pericoli’s dominance in Italian tennis was remarkable, holding the title of Italy’s number one player for 14 consecutive years between 1959 and 1976, as noted by the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation. She amassed an impressive 27 national titles during her illustrious career, cementing her place as one of the greats in Italian sports history.
Pericoli’s influence went far beyond her own success. She paved the way for generations of Italian tennis players and became a role model for women in sports. Angelo Binaghi, president of the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation, referred to her as a mother figure to many within the Italian tennis community, a sentiment echoed by current players.
Jannik Sinner, Italy’s current world number one male tennis player, paid tribute to Pericoli on social media, posting a heartfelt message alongside a photo of the two together: “A special moment that I will remember forever. A great lady and legend of Italian tennis.” The post reflected the profound respect that younger players had for Pericoli and the legacy she left behind.
Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal also honored Pericoli’s memory, sharing his own words of tribute: “Thanks for everything. You will always be remembered by all of us.”
Life After Tennis
After retiring from professional tennis, Lea Pericoli continued to make her mark as a television presenter and journalist. Her charm and charisma, which made her a beloved figure on the court, translated seamlessly into her work in the media. She became a well-known tennis commentator, sharing her insights and experience with a wide audience, further solidifying her role as an ambassador for the sport.
Pericoli’s life was not without its challenges. She was a two-time cancer survivor, overcoming the disease in 1973 and again in 2012. Her battle with cancer further showcased her resilience and determination, traits that had defined her entire career. Through her personal struggles and triumphs, she remained an inspiration to many, both on and off the tennis court.
Lea Pericoli’s legacy is multifaceted. In the world of tennis, she was a trailblazer, consistently breaking barriers and setting new standards for women in sports. As a fashion icon, she brought glamour and elegance to the courts, challenging traditional notions of what tennis players could look like.
Her unique blend of athleticism and style made her a global figure, admired not just by tennis fans but by the fashion world as well. Even after her retirement, her influence on the game remained palpable. Pericoli’s outfits from her playing days are still discussed in the context of tennis history, and her contributions to sports culture are revered.
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