Jean Borotra, also known as "The Bounding Basque," was a French tennis player born on August 13, 1898, in Biarritz, France. He was one of the famous "Four Musketeers" of French tennis, along with René Lacoste, Jacques Brugnon, and Henri Cochet, who dominated the sport in the 1920s and 1930s.
Borotra began his tennis career in the early 1920s and quickly rose to prominence, winning his first major title at the French Championships in 1924. He went on to win a total of four Grand Slam singles titles, including two French Championships (1924, 1931) and two Wimbledon Championships (1924, 1926).
In addition to his success in singles, Borotra was also a highly accomplished doubles player, winning multiple Grand Slam titles in both men's and mixed doubles. He was known for his speed and agility on the court, as well as his sportsmanship and charismatic personality.
During his career, Borotra represented France in the Davis Cup, helping the team win multiple titles in the 1920s and 1930s. He was also a member of the French Olympic team, winning a bronze medal in singles at the 1924 Paris Olympics.
After retiring from competitive tennis, Borotra remained involved in the sport as a coach and administrator. He served as the president of the French Tennis Federation and was instrumental in the development of the modern Davis Cup format.
Jean Borotra passed away on July 17, 1994, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the greatest tennis players in French history.
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Early Life and Tennis Career:
- Born on August 13, 1898, in Biarritz, France - Began playing tennis at the age of 10 - Won his first major tournament, the French Covered Court Championships, in 1921 - Represented France at the Davis Cup from 1922 to 1933, winning the title six times
"Les Mousquetaires" Era:
- Known as one of "Les Mousquetaires," a group of four French tennis players who dominated the sport in the 1920s and early 1930s, along with René Lacoste, Henri Cochet, and Jacques Brugnon - Won the Wimbledon Gentlemen's Singles title in 1924 and 1926 - Reached the finals of the Australian Open twice, in 1928 and 1931
Late Career and Other Pursuits:
- Retired from professional tennis in 1933 - Served as Davis Cup captain for France from 1934 to 1939 - Pursued a career in politics, serving as a deputy in the French National Assembly from 1936 to 1940 - Participated in the French Resistance during World War II, where he was captured and sent to a Nazi concentration camp - After the war, he became a successful businessman in the tourism and sports industries
Legacy and Honors:
- Inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1976 - Named "French Player of the Century" by the French Tennis Federation in 1985 - Recipient of the Legion of Honour and the Croix de Guerre - Known for his aggressive playing style, exceptional footwork, and charismatic personality
Personal Life:
- Married twice, first to Marguerite Brouzes in 1921 and then to Susan Ridley in 1946 - Had four children - Died in Cambo-les-Bains, France, on July 17, 1994, at the age of 95