Pietrangeli, Volandri: “first idol for those who love tennis, we grew up with him”

Rome, Dec. 1 (LaPresse) – “Today our tennis loses a giant. Nicola Pietrangeli was the first idol and the first true point of reference for anyone who has loved this sport. For us who wear or have worn the blue jersey, he was never just a great champion of the past. From an ironic remark to the most serious advice, he always had the right way to make you reflect and to remind you what it means to represent Italy. He was free, direct, authentic: for this reason, unique.” This is what Filippo Volandri, current captain of Italy’s Davis Cup team, said. “He paved the way for all of us. His victories, his personality, and his way of living tennis allowed Italy to believe it could compete at the highest levels,” he continues. “We grew up with his stories, with his overwhelming passion, with his ability to make us feel part of a greater story. We lose a symbol and a teacher, but his spirit will remain with us, in every Davis Cup and in every young player who steps onto the court wearing the blue jersey. Thank you, Nicola, for everything you have represented and will continue to represent for our tennis.”