SA tennis legend Raymond Anthony passes away at age 66

Tennis South Africa (TSA) deeply mourns the passing of Raymond Anthony, a South African tennis legend, who passed away at the age of 66 on Saturday morning.

Born in Upington in the Northern Cape in 1956, Anthony achieved remarkable success during the early to mid-1980s, winning multiple provincial and national titles under the banner of the South African Tennis Association (SATA). Unfortunately, despite his exceptional accomplishments, he was unable to represent his country abroad due to the prevailing apartheid regime at that time.

Among the highlights of Anthony's career was his impressive victory over John Hill, who had previously defeated American ATP player Bill Scanlon. This victory, won in straight sets, marked a significant milestone in 1983. Moreover, in 1986, he triumphed over ex-Springbok Schalk Van der Merwe, a formidable player in his own right, who represented the South African Tennis Union (SATU), a white body.

"TSA extends its deepest condolences to the Anthony family during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn the loss of a tennis icon whose legacy will endure for many years to come," said TSA Vice President Riad Davids.

Over a year ago, TSA presented the tennis legend with a national blazer in recognition of his achievements.

"It was my and TSA's absolute pleasure to recognise Raymond and award him with the national blazer as a small gesture of redress and acknowledgement of his achievements. His indelible impact on South African tennis will forever be etched in the history books," added Davids.