One of the most legendary voices of American tennis, journalist, broadcaster, and tennis historian Bud Collins passed away at the age of 86 today. Collins was also known for his trademark flamboyant slacks.
The Ohio native started his national tennis coverage working for CBS in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s, and then moved on to his most notable role as the voice of NBC Tennis coverage well into the 21st century. Collins was a writer of numerous books about tennis over the years and was elected to the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1994.
Many American tennis fans hold fond memories of Collins, and grew up with him when they were learning to enjoy and appreciate the game. He’ll be sorely missed by the international tennis community, and his memory lives on in the broadcasting behemoth that professional tennis has become, reaching millions of viewers across the globe on television, and now online.
Collins was the most memorable part of televised Grand Slam coverage for years, including Wimbledon and the US Open.
We at Last Word on Sports offer our condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and fans.
Tennis Legend Bud Collins Dies at Age 86
Main Photo Credit:
Main Photo Caption: INDIAN WELLS, CA – MARCH 17: Bethanie Mattek-Sands (R) is interviewed by Bud Collins during the BNP Paribas Open at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden on March 17, 2011 in Indian Wells, California. (Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images)
