A Legacy of Excellence and Generosity
Australian tennis is mourning the passing of Mal Anderson, a four-time Grand Slam champion who passed away at the age of 91. His journey in the sport was shaped by humble beginnings and an unwavering passion for tennis.
Anderson grew up on a cattle station in Theodore, a small town with a population of just 451. His father, recognizing his son’s love for the game, built a tennis court using dirt and ant nests. This early exposure to the sport laid the foundation for what would become a legendary career.
Anderson’s achievements include winning the 1957 US Open singles title and three major doubles titles. His success on the international stage was remarkable, especially considering he was unseeded at the 1957 US Open, which was then known as the United States Championships. Despite this, he dominated the tournament, defeating three seeds and only dropping two sets on his way to victory.
“I just loved tennis from the earliest age. I was addicted to it and it became my life,” Anderson once reflected. His dedication to the sport was evident throughout his career, and he played during Australia’s golden post-war era. As a boy, he often played against the Laver brothers, who had a similar court built on their family property near Rockhampton.
Anderson married Roy Emerson’s sister, Daphne, and they had three children together. His influence extended beyond his own career, as he later mentored many young players, including Pat Rafter, Scott Draper, Wally Masur, and John Fitzgerald.
“On his day Mal was capable of playing any shot in the book and he had a fantastic serve,” said Roy Emerson. Anderson’s legacy is not only defined by his accomplishments but also by the respect he earned from his peers and the younger generation of players.
After a brief professional career, Anderson ran a successful tennis and squash centre in Brisbane before returning to the court for the twilight of his career. In 1972, although semi-retired, he reached the final of the Australian Open after defeating John Newcombe in a grueling five-set quarter-final.
Mentoring the Next Generation
Anderson’s impact on Australian tennis extended far beyond his playing days. He took on the role of mentor, guiding young players and instilling in them the values of professionalism and sportsmanship.
Pat Rafter, one of the players he mentored, shared his deep admiration for Anderson. “I was really sad to hear of Mal’s passing. He was one of those people who helped shape my tennis from very early on,” Rafter said. He recalled how Anderson took him overseas for the first time to Wimbledon, introducing him to the professional game and the importance of proper conduct on and off the court.
Rafter also remembered the respect Anderson received when his name was announced at Queen’s Club in London. “The whole place stood up for him. That told you everything about the respect people had for him, not just here in Australia but around the world.”
Wally Masur, another player influenced by Anderson, spoke about the mentor’s leadership and the lessons he imparted. “I first met Mal when he took 10 youngsters on a satellite circuit around country NSW in about 1979,” Masur said. He described the rigorous training sessions that Anderson led, emphasizing the discipline and encouragement he provided.
A True Legend of the Game
Mal Anderson’s contributions to Australian tennis are undeniable. His Davis Cup record includes 13 wins and 6 losses between 1957-1958 and 1972-1973. His Grand Slam titles include:
- Singles: US Open 1957
- Doubles: French Open 1957, Australian Open 1973
- Mixed Doubles: Australian Open 1957
He will be remembered not only as a great player but also as a generous and humble individual who dedicated his life to the sport. His legacy continues to inspire generations of Australian tennis players.
