-
USA - Vitas Gerulaitis Funeral
(23 Sep 1994) Funeral services were held for tennis star Vitas Gerulaitis at
Oyster Bay on Long Island on Thursday (22/9), five days after he
was found dead of carbon monoxide poisoning. Jimmy Connors, Bjorn
Borg, and John McEnroe, the three men who always stood between
Gerulaitis and the world number one tennis ranking, were
pallbearers, all remembering Gerulaitis as a friend, as well as a
competitor.
SHOWS:
OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK 22/9
pallbearers carrying coffin from church, bearers include John
McEnroe
Jimmy Connors and Bjorn Borg
wv church with family departing
Borg, Conners and McEnroe comfort each other with embrace
church
McEnroe and Connors depart
Borg tells reporters he loved Gerulaitis and wishes to keep the
memories private
1.29
Find out more about AP Archive...
published: 28 Jul 2015
-
Bjorn Borg v Vitas Gerulaitis: Wimbledon Semi-final 1977 (Extended Highlights)
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This is the official YouTube page of The All England Lawn Tennis Club (Championships), home of Wimbledon. The Championships 2016 will run from 27 June-10 July.
published: 01 Feb 2017
-
Unravelling the Tragic Story of Tennis Star Vitas Gerulaitis
Unravelling the Tragic Story of Tennis Star Vitas Gerulaitis
In this gripping and heartbreaking video, we delve deep into the tragic story of Vitas Gerulaitis, a tennis star whose life was filled with both triumph and tragedy. Join us as we unravel the extraordinary journey of a man who captivated the tennis world with his exceptional talent and charisma.
From his early days as a rising star in the tennis circuit to his historic victories at major tournaments, Gerulaitis seemed destined for greatness. His powerful and elegant playing style, coupled with his vibrant personality, made him a fan favorite and a household name.
Through exclusive interviews, archival footage, and in-depth research, we peel back the layers of Gerulaitis' life, exploring the triumphs and the demons he battled....
published: 16 May 2023
-
Roscoe Tanner vs Vitas Gerulaitis in a five-set thriller! | US Open 1979 Semifinal
No. 5 seed Roscoe Tanner locks horns with No. 4 seed Vitas Gerulaitis in the semifinals of the US Open 1979.
Tanner swept aside No. 1 seed Bjorn Borg in the quarterfinals and will be looking to make light work of his fellow American in the semifinals. While Gerulaitis arrives having only dropped one set in the competition so far.
Who will emerge victorious and advance to their first US Open final in this thrilling battle?
Click here to subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7joGi4V3-r9i5tmmw7dM6g/?sub_confirmation=1
Twitter: https://twitter.com/usta
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USTA/
Website: https://www.usta.com
published: 25 Mar 2021
-
Vitas Gerulaitis vs John McEnroe in a battle of the New Yorkers! | US Open 1979 Final
No. 4 seed Vitas Gerulaitis takes on No. 3 seed John McEnroe in the US Open 1979 final.
The pair played the matches of their lives in the semifinals at the National Tennis Center to win the hearts of spectators. 25-year-old Gerulaitis overcame Roscoe Tanner in a five-set thriller, while 20-year-old Mcenroe dispatched defending champion Jimmy Connors in straight sets.
This match will be the first all‐American men's final since 1953 and the first all New York championship match. But who will come out on top?
Click here to subscribe: shorturl.at/nwP58
Twitter: https://twitter.com/usta
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published: 15 Apr 2021
-
Vitas Gerulaitis vs Stan Smith Extended Highlights | 1979 US Open Round 3
Watch extended highlights as Vitas Gerulaitis takes on Stan Smith in Round 3 of the 1979 US Open.
Click here to subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/c/usta
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published: 23 Dec 2021
-
Tennis Channel Live: Rock Star, Loyal Friend: Remembering Vitas Gerulaitis
Subscribe to Tennis Channel on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=tennischannel
published: 06 Apr 2020
-
Vitas Gerulaitis Exhibition Match (December 20, 1978)
Vytautas Kevin Gerulaitis (July 26, 1954 – September 17, 1994) was an American professional tennis player, known as Vitas Gerulaitis. In 1975, he won the men's doubles title at Wimbledon, partnering with Sandy Mayer. He won the men's singles title at the latter of the two Australian Open tournaments held in 1977 (December;[1] Roscoe Tanner won earlier in January). He won two Italian Opens (1977, 1979), and the WCT Finals in Dallas in 1978.
Early life
Born to Lithuanian immigrant parents in Brooklyn, New York, Gerulaitis grew up in Howard Beach, Queens,[2] attended Archbishop Molloy High School in Queens, and graduated in 1971. He attended Columbia College of Columbia University with the class of 1975 for one year, then dropped out to pursue tennis full-time.[3]
Gerulaitis was nicknamed "...
published: 08 Oct 2023
-
Jimmy Connors calls Ivan Lendl "F***ing Faggot Playing Pusher" after losing game at 1992 US Open
This was the last head to head match between Jimmy Connors and Ivan Lendl. It was at the 1992 US Open. Connors appeared to be very frustrated at Lendl's defensive style of play, calling him a "f***ing faggot playing pusher." A "pusher" plays a defensive style which can be very frustrating to some tennis players. It can wear down players physically, especially older players. It could be perceived as exploiting an older player's age to win games, as opposed to winning by tennis skill alone. Jimmy Connors turned 40 years old at the time of this tournament. Ivan Lendl was 32 years old.
In the comments I see that there's debate whether Connors was talking about Lendl or whether he was talking about himself. Well, in the post-match interview with Vitas Gerulaitis, Connors complained that Lendl...
published: 14 Jan 2018
-
Bjorn Borg vs Vitas Gerulaitis | Wimbledon 1977 Semi-final | Full Match Replay
This is the official Wimbledon YouTube page.
To keep up with Wimbledon throughout the year, visit wimbledon.com/mywimbledon
published: 10 Jul 2020
1:29
USA - Vitas Gerulaitis Funeral
(23 Sep 1994) Funeral services were held for tennis star Vitas Gerulaitis at
Oyster Bay on Long Island on Thursday (22/9), five days after he
was found dead o...
(23 Sep 1994) Funeral services were held for tennis star Vitas Gerulaitis at
Oyster Bay on Long Island on Thursday (22/9), five days after he
was found dead of carbon monoxide poisoning. Jimmy Connors, Bjorn
Borg, and John McEnroe, the three men who always stood between
Gerulaitis and the world number one tennis ranking, were
pallbearers, all remembering Gerulaitis as a friend, as well as a
competitor.
SHOWS:
OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK 22/9
pallbearers carrying coffin from church, bearers include John
McEnroe
Jimmy Connors and Bjorn Borg
wv church with family departing
Borg, Conners and McEnroe comfort each other with embrace
church
McEnroe and Connors depart
Borg tells reporters he loved Gerulaitis and wishes to keep the
memories private
1.29
Find out more about AP Archive: http://www.aparchive.com/HowWeWork
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AP_Archive
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/APArchives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/APNews/
You can license this story through AP Archive: http://www.aparchive.com/metadata/youtube/41d2ccb8ce7b54d2e3b9bf37d57d56ec
https://wn.com/USA_Vitas_Gerulaitis_Funeral
(23 Sep 1994) Funeral services were held for tennis star Vitas Gerulaitis at
Oyster Bay on Long Island on Thursday (22/9), five days after he
was found dead of carbon monoxide poisoning. Jimmy Connors, Bjorn
Borg, and John McEnroe, the three men who always stood between
Gerulaitis and the world number one tennis ranking, were
pallbearers, all remembering Gerulaitis as a friend, as well as a
competitor.
SHOWS:
OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK 22/9
pallbearers carrying coffin from church, bearers include John
McEnroe
Jimmy Connors and Bjorn Borg
wv church with family departing
Borg, Conners and McEnroe comfort each other with embrace
church
McEnroe and Connors depart
Borg tells reporters he loved Gerulaitis and wishes to keep the
memories private
1.29
Find out more about AP Archive: http://www.aparchive.com/HowWeWork
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AP_Archive
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/APArchives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/APNews/
You can license this story through AP Archive: http://www.aparchive.com/metadata/youtube/41d2ccb8ce7b54d2e3b9bf37d57d56ec
- published: 28 Jul 2015
- views: 59691
25:39
Bjorn Borg v Vitas Gerulaitis: Wimbledon Semi-final 1977 (Extended Highlights)
SUBSCRIBE to The Wimbledon YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/wimbledon
LIKE Wimbledon on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wimbledon
FOLLOW Wimbledon o...
SUBSCRIBE to The Wimbledon YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/wimbledon
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This is the official YouTube page of The All England Lawn Tennis Club (Championships), home of Wimbledon. The Championships 2016 will run from 27 June-10 July.
https://wn.com/Bjorn_Borg_V_Vitas_Gerulaitis_Wimbledon_Semi_Final_1977_(Extended_Highlights)
SUBSCRIBE to The Wimbledon YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/wimbledon
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FOLLOW Wimbledon on Snapchat: add Wimbledon
+1 Wimbledon on Google+: https://plus.google.com/+Wimbledon
VISIT: http://www.wimbledon.com/
This is the official YouTube page of The All England Lawn Tennis Club (Championships), home of Wimbledon. The Championships 2016 will run from 27 June-10 July.
- published: 01 Feb 2017
- views: 289102
12:01
Unravelling the Tragic Story of Tennis Star Vitas Gerulaitis
Unravelling the Tragic Story of Tennis Star Vitas Gerulaitis
In this gripping and heartbreaking video, we delve deep into the tragic story of Vitas Gerulaitis,...
Unravelling the Tragic Story of Tennis Star Vitas Gerulaitis
In this gripping and heartbreaking video, we delve deep into the tragic story of Vitas Gerulaitis, a tennis star whose life was filled with both triumph and tragedy. Join us as we unravel the extraordinary journey of a man who captivated the tennis world with his exceptional talent and charisma.
From his early days as a rising star in the tennis circuit to his historic victories at major tournaments, Gerulaitis seemed destined for greatness. His powerful and elegant playing style, coupled with his vibrant personality, made him a fan favorite and a household name.
Through exclusive interviews, archival footage, and in-depth research, we peel back the layers of Gerulaitis' life, exploring the triumphs and the demons he battled. From the pressures of the professional tennis world to his triumphs on and off the court, this video paints a comprehensive portrait of a complex and ultimately tragic figure.
Unraveling the Tragic Story of Tennis Star Vitas Gerulaitis is a poignant exploration of a life filled with both glory and despair, shedding light on the profound impact this tennis icon left on the world and the sport he loved. Join us as we uncover the highs, lows, and everything in between in this captivating journey into the life of Vitas Gerulaitis.
If you like this content be sure to SUBSCRIBE (!!)
https://wn.com/Unravelling_The_Tragic_Story_Of_Tennis_Star_Vitas_Gerulaitis
Unravelling the Tragic Story of Tennis Star Vitas Gerulaitis
In this gripping and heartbreaking video, we delve deep into the tragic story of Vitas Gerulaitis, a tennis star whose life was filled with both triumph and tragedy. Join us as we unravel the extraordinary journey of a man who captivated the tennis world with his exceptional talent and charisma.
From his early days as a rising star in the tennis circuit to his historic victories at major tournaments, Gerulaitis seemed destined for greatness. His powerful and elegant playing style, coupled with his vibrant personality, made him a fan favorite and a household name.
Through exclusive interviews, archival footage, and in-depth research, we peel back the layers of Gerulaitis' life, exploring the triumphs and the demons he battled. From the pressures of the professional tennis world to his triumphs on and off the court, this video paints a comprehensive portrait of a complex and ultimately tragic figure.
Unraveling the Tragic Story of Tennis Star Vitas Gerulaitis is a poignant exploration of a life filled with both glory and despair, shedding light on the profound impact this tennis icon left on the world and the sport he loved. Join us as we uncover the highs, lows, and everything in between in this captivating journey into the life of Vitas Gerulaitis.
If you like this content be sure to SUBSCRIBE (!!)
- published: 16 May 2023
- views: 8531
17:33
Roscoe Tanner vs Vitas Gerulaitis in a five-set thriller! | US Open 1979 Semifinal
No. 5 seed Roscoe Tanner locks horns with No. 4 seed Vitas Gerulaitis in the semifinals of the US Open 1979.
Tanner swept aside No. 1 seed Bjorn Borg in the qu...
No. 5 seed Roscoe Tanner locks horns with No. 4 seed Vitas Gerulaitis in the semifinals of the US Open 1979.
Tanner swept aside No. 1 seed Bjorn Borg in the quarterfinals and will be looking to make light work of his fellow American in the semifinals. While Gerulaitis arrives having only dropped one set in the competition so far.
Who will emerge victorious and advance to their first US Open final in this thrilling battle?
Click here to subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7joGi4V3-r9i5tmmw7dM6g/?sub_confirmation=1
Twitter: https://twitter.com/usta
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Website: https://www.usta.com
https://wn.com/Roscoe_Tanner_Vs_Vitas_Gerulaitis_In_A_Five_Set_Thriller_|_US_Open_1979_Semifinal
No. 5 seed Roscoe Tanner locks horns with No. 4 seed Vitas Gerulaitis in the semifinals of the US Open 1979.
Tanner swept aside No. 1 seed Bjorn Borg in the quarterfinals and will be looking to make light work of his fellow American in the semifinals. While Gerulaitis arrives having only dropped one set in the competition so far.
Who will emerge victorious and advance to their first US Open final in this thrilling battle?
Click here to subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7joGi4V3-r9i5tmmw7dM6g/?sub_confirmation=1
Twitter: https://twitter.com/usta
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USTA/
Website: https://www.usta.com
- published: 25 Mar 2021
- views: 195357
1:07:03
Vitas Gerulaitis vs John McEnroe in a battle of the New Yorkers! | US Open 1979 Final
No. 4 seed Vitas Gerulaitis takes on No. 3 seed John McEnroe in the US Open 1979 final.
The pair played the matches of their lives in the semifinals at the Nat...
No. 4 seed Vitas Gerulaitis takes on No. 3 seed John McEnroe in the US Open 1979 final.
The pair played the matches of their lives in the semifinals at the National Tennis Center to win the hearts of spectators. 25-year-old Gerulaitis overcame Roscoe Tanner in a five-set thriller, while 20-year-old Mcenroe dispatched defending champion Jimmy Connors in straight sets.
This match will be the first all‐American men's final since 1953 and the first all New York championship match. But who will come out on top?
Click here to subscribe: shorturl.at/nwP58
Twitter: https://twitter.com/usta
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USTA/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usta/
Website: https://www.usta.com
https://wn.com/Vitas_Gerulaitis_Vs_John_Mcenroe_In_A_Battle_Of_The_New_Yorkers_|_US_Open_1979_Final
No. 4 seed Vitas Gerulaitis takes on No. 3 seed John McEnroe in the US Open 1979 final.
The pair played the matches of their lives in the semifinals at the National Tennis Center to win the hearts of spectators. 25-year-old Gerulaitis overcame Roscoe Tanner in a five-set thriller, while 20-year-old Mcenroe dispatched defending champion Jimmy Connors in straight sets.
This match will be the first all‐American men's final since 1953 and the first all New York championship match. But who will come out on top?
Click here to subscribe: shorturl.at/nwP58
Twitter: https://twitter.com/usta
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USTA/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usta/
Website: https://www.usta.com
- published: 15 Apr 2021
- views: 365536
13:53
Vitas Gerulaitis vs Stan Smith Extended Highlights | 1979 US Open Round 3
Watch extended highlights as Vitas Gerulaitis takes on Stan Smith in Round 3 of the 1979 US Open.
Click here to subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/c/usta
Twit...
Watch extended highlights as Vitas Gerulaitis takes on Stan Smith in Round 3 of the 1979 US Open.
Click here to subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/c/usta
Twitter: https://twitter.com/usta
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USTA/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usta/
Website: https://www.usta.com
https://wn.com/Vitas_Gerulaitis_Vs_Stan_Smith_Extended_Highlights_|_1979_US_Open_Round_3
Watch extended highlights as Vitas Gerulaitis takes on Stan Smith in Round 3 of the 1979 US Open.
Click here to subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/c/usta
Twitter: https://twitter.com/usta
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USTA/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usta/
Website: https://www.usta.com
- published: 23 Dec 2021
- views: 40044
8:16
Tennis Channel Live: Rock Star, Loyal Friend: Remembering Vitas Gerulaitis
Subscribe to Tennis Channel on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=tennischannel
Subscribe to Tennis Channel on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=tennischannel
https://wn.com/Tennis_Channel_Live_Rock_Star,_Loyal_Friend_Remembering_Vitas_Gerulaitis
Subscribe to Tennis Channel on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=tennischannel
- published: 06 Apr 2020
- views: 39311
0:29
Vitas Gerulaitis Exhibition Match (December 20, 1978)
Vytautas Kevin Gerulaitis (July 26, 1954 – September 17, 1994) was an American professional tennis player, known as Vitas Gerulaitis. In 1975, he won the men's ...
Vytautas Kevin Gerulaitis (July 26, 1954 – September 17, 1994) was an American professional tennis player, known as Vitas Gerulaitis. In 1975, he won the men's doubles title at Wimbledon, partnering with Sandy Mayer. He won the men's singles title at the latter of the two Australian Open tournaments held in 1977 (December;[1] Roscoe Tanner won earlier in January). He won two Italian Opens (1977, 1979), and the WCT Finals in Dallas in 1978.
Early life
Born to Lithuanian immigrant parents in Brooklyn, New York, Gerulaitis grew up in Howard Beach, Queens,[2] attended Archbishop Molloy High School in Queens, and graduated in 1971. He attended Columbia College of Columbia University with the class of 1975 for one year, then dropped out to pursue tennis full-time.[3]
Gerulaitis was nicknamed "The Lithuanian Lion".[4] His younger sister Ruta was also a professional tennis player; both siblings' native language was Lithuanian.[5]
Career highlights
Gerulaitis led the Pittsburgh Triangles to the World TeamTennis championship title at Pittsburgh's Civic Arena in 1975. Gerulaitis played for the Triangles from 1974 until 1976. He also played for the league's Indiana Loves franchise in 1977.
Gerulaitis was coached by Fred Stolle from 1977 until 1983.
He also won the men's doubles title at Wimbledon in 1975. He was a singles semifinalist at Wimbledon in both 1977 and 1978. In 1977 he lost a Wimbledon semifinal to his close friend and practice partner, Björn Borg, 6–4, 3–6, 6–3, 3–6, 8–6, a match later considered one of the greatest of the decade.[6]
In December 1977, Gerulaitis won the most significant title of his career at the Australian Open, when he defeated John Lloyd in the men's singles final in five sets on New Year's Eve.[1]
In 1978, Gerulaitis won the year-end championship WCT Finals for the World Championship Tennis tour, beating Eddie Dibbs 6–3, 6–2, 6–1. By 1978, he was the third-ranked men's singles player in the world.
Gerulaitis advanced to the men's singles finals at the US Open in 1979, but lost in straight sets to fellow New Yorker John McEnroe. He was a member of the U.S. team which won the Davis Cup in 1979 and won two singles "rubbers" in the final, as the U.S. swept Italy 5–0.
Gerulaitis reached his third Grand Slam singles final at the French Open in 1980, but lost in straight sets to defending champion Borg.
In February 1981, Gerulaitis won the star-laden Toronto Indoor invitational tournament, defeating Jimmy Connors in the semifinal and McEnroe in four sets the final.[7]
During his career, Gerulaitis won 25 top-level singles titles and eight doubles titles. His career-high singles ranking was world No. 3 which he reached on February 27, 1978.
Gerulaitis was known for his exceptionally quick hands at the net and his outstanding court coverage.[8] In 1985, Gerulaitis teamed with Bobby Riggs to launch a challenge to female players after the famous Battle of the Sexes. The stunt, however, was short-lived when Gerulaitis and Riggs lost a doubles match against Martina Navratilova and Pam Shriver.[9]
He retired from the professional tour in 1986, and was a regular tennis commentator on the USA network between 1988 and 1994.
Gerulaitis coached Pete Sampras during the 1994 Italian Open in Rome, when Sampras' coach, Tim Gullikson, was on a family vacation. Sampras won the title by defeating Boris Becker in the final in straight sets.
Death
On September 17, 1994, while visiting a friend's home in Southampton, New York, an improperly installed propane heater for the swimming pool caused carbon monoxide gas to seep into the guesthouse where Gerulaitis was sleeping, causing his death by carbon monoxide poisoning. He failed to show up for a dinner at 7 p.m. that Saturday evening and his body was found the following day by a maid who went to the guesthouse.[10][11][12] Gerulaitis' remains were interred in Saint Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale, New York.
Criminal charges of negligent homicide were later brought against the pool mechanic and the company he worked for. Both he and the company were acquitted in October 1996. Jurors heard testimony that a technician from the heater manufacturer had made adjustments several days before Gerulaitis' death and that even if an exhaust pipe had been longer, carbon monoxide (colorless and odorless) would have still been drawn into the air-conditioning vent because it is denser than air at low temperatures. Arthur M. Luxenberg, a lawyer for the Gerulaitis family, stated that Gerulaitis' mother and sister believed the verdict to be fair, and he went on to state that the testimony at the trial "confirmed to us what we always knew: that there were a lot of other people involved in this matter."[13]
The Gerulaitis family reached a confidential settlement with some of the defendants in their civil case by 2002.[14][15]
https://wn.com/Vitas_Gerulaitis_Exhibition_Match_(December_20,_1978)
Vytautas Kevin Gerulaitis (July 26, 1954 – September 17, 1994) was an American professional tennis player, known as Vitas Gerulaitis. In 1975, he won the men's doubles title at Wimbledon, partnering with Sandy Mayer. He won the men's singles title at the latter of the two Australian Open tournaments held in 1977 (December;[1] Roscoe Tanner won earlier in January). He won two Italian Opens (1977, 1979), and the WCT Finals in Dallas in 1978.
Early life
Born to Lithuanian immigrant parents in Brooklyn, New York, Gerulaitis grew up in Howard Beach, Queens,[2] attended Archbishop Molloy High School in Queens, and graduated in 1971. He attended Columbia College of Columbia University with the class of 1975 for one year, then dropped out to pursue tennis full-time.[3]
Gerulaitis was nicknamed "The Lithuanian Lion".[4] His younger sister Ruta was also a professional tennis player; both siblings' native language was Lithuanian.[5]
Career highlights
Gerulaitis led the Pittsburgh Triangles to the World TeamTennis championship title at Pittsburgh's Civic Arena in 1975. Gerulaitis played for the Triangles from 1974 until 1976. He also played for the league's Indiana Loves franchise in 1977.
Gerulaitis was coached by Fred Stolle from 1977 until 1983.
He also won the men's doubles title at Wimbledon in 1975. He was a singles semifinalist at Wimbledon in both 1977 and 1978. In 1977 he lost a Wimbledon semifinal to his close friend and practice partner, Björn Borg, 6–4, 3–6, 6–3, 3–6, 8–6, a match later considered one of the greatest of the decade.[6]
In December 1977, Gerulaitis won the most significant title of his career at the Australian Open, when he defeated John Lloyd in the men's singles final in five sets on New Year's Eve.[1]
In 1978, Gerulaitis won the year-end championship WCT Finals for the World Championship Tennis tour, beating Eddie Dibbs 6–3, 6–2, 6–1. By 1978, he was the third-ranked men's singles player in the world.
Gerulaitis advanced to the men's singles finals at the US Open in 1979, but lost in straight sets to fellow New Yorker John McEnroe. He was a member of the U.S. team which won the Davis Cup in 1979 and won two singles "rubbers" in the final, as the U.S. swept Italy 5–0.
Gerulaitis reached his third Grand Slam singles final at the French Open in 1980, but lost in straight sets to defending champion Borg.
In February 1981, Gerulaitis won the star-laden Toronto Indoor invitational tournament, defeating Jimmy Connors in the semifinal and McEnroe in four sets the final.[7]
During his career, Gerulaitis won 25 top-level singles titles and eight doubles titles. His career-high singles ranking was world No. 3 which he reached on February 27, 1978.
Gerulaitis was known for his exceptionally quick hands at the net and his outstanding court coverage.[8] In 1985, Gerulaitis teamed with Bobby Riggs to launch a challenge to female players after the famous Battle of the Sexes. The stunt, however, was short-lived when Gerulaitis and Riggs lost a doubles match against Martina Navratilova and Pam Shriver.[9]
He retired from the professional tour in 1986, and was a regular tennis commentator on the USA network between 1988 and 1994.
Gerulaitis coached Pete Sampras during the 1994 Italian Open in Rome, when Sampras' coach, Tim Gullikson, was on a family vacation. Sampras won the title by defeating Boris Becker in the final in straight sets.
Death
On September 17, 1994, while visiting a friend's home in Southampton, New York, an improperly installed propane heater for the swimming pool caused carbon monoxide gas to seep into the guesthouse where Gerulaitis was sleeping, causing his death by carbon monoxide poisoning. He failed to show up for a dinner at 7 p.m. that Saturday evening and his body was found the following day by a maid who went to the guesthouse.[10][11][12] Gerulaitis' remains were interred in Saint Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale, New York.
Criminal charges of negligent homicide were later brought against the pool mechanic and the company he worked for. Both he and the company were acquitted in October 1996. Jurors heard testimony that a technician from the heater manufacturer had made adjustments several days before Gerulaitis' death and that even if an exhaust pipe had been longer, carbon monoxide (colorless and odorless) would have still been drawn into the air-conditioning vent because it is denser than air at low temperatures. Arthur M. Luxenberg, a lawyer for the Gerulaitis family, stated that Gerulaitis' mother and sister believed the verdict to be fair, and he went on to state that the testimony at the trial "confirmed to us what we always knew: that there were a lot of other people involved in this matter."[13]
The Gerulaitis family reached a confidential settlement with some of the defendants in their civil case by 2002.[14][15]
- published: 08 Oct 2023
- views: 420
1:32
Jimmy Connors calls Ivan Lendl "F***ing Faggot Playing Pusher" after losing game at 1992 US Open
This was the last head to head match between Jimmy Connors and Ivan Lendl. It was at the 1992 US Open. Connors appeared to be very frustrated at Lendl's defensi...
This was the last head to head match between Jimmy Connors and Ivan Lendl. It was at the 1992 US Open. Connors appeared to be very frustrated at Lendl's defensive style of play, calling him a "f***ing faggot playing pusher." A "pusher" plays a defensive style which can be very frustrating to some tennis players. It can wear down players physically, especially older players. It could be perceived as exploiting an older player's age to win games, as opposed to winning by tennis skill alone. Jimmy Connors turned 40 years old at the time of this tournament. Ivan Lendl was 32 years old.
In the comments I see that there's debate whether Connors was talking about Lendl or whether he was talking about himself. Well, in the post-match interview with Vitas Gerulaitis, Connors complained that Lendl was not hitting the ball anything like he used to and was just "bunting" the balls back to him. You can see in this one game that Lendl won all his points by Connors' errors (no outright winners). Also, Connors wouldn't be calling himself a pusher if he's the one approaching the net (which you can see he does in this game).
For any of you who still think Connors was talking about himself, please see a transcript of his post-match interview here: http://www.asapsports.com/show_interview.php?id=16333 He complains about Lendl just "bunting" the ball back to him and refers to playing Lendl "like pulling teeth."
The truth is, neither Connors nor Lendl were "pushers." They would never have become the great tennis players they became if all they did was push the ball. But sometimes putting the ball back in play and using the opponent's pace against them is a strategy to win. Connors does say "playing" pusher. Lendl did not give Connors the pace that he wanted, it frustrated Connors, and the strategy seemed to have worked out for Lendl. For the boxing fans out there, if you remember the Tyson-Holyfield matches, Holyfield used a grabbing, clinching technique that frustrated Tyson. Holyfield did not always fight that style against other opponents but he knew the technique would be effective against Tyson. I think Lendl was hitting the ball in a way he thought would work against Connors but that doesn't mean he always hit that way against other opponents. I think age also played a factor. Connors turned 40 years old. He was not nearly in the same shape that he was in during his prime.
Anyway, the following is the definition of "pusher" from Wikipedia:
In tennis, a pusher is a defensive player who "pushes" back any shot they can chase down, without deliberately hitting a winner. They can angle shots, aim deep, as well as produce effective lobs. Pushers are extremely quick and consistent, rarely making errors. This style of play, similar to a "human backboard", often tires and frustrates more offensive opponents. They will try to win games by eliciting unforced errors from the opponent, i.e. by waiting for them to make the first mistake and losing the point. Pushers love to "dink" balls back with sidespin or backspin, placing their shots at disadvantageous locations for their opponents. The pusher's strategy also tends to involve a fair amount of psychological warfare.
Sorry for the bad video quality. It was from a VHS tape from 1992, twenty-six years ago from the upload date.
https://wn.com/Jimmy_Connors_Calls_Ivan_Lendl_F_Ing_Faggot_Playing_Pusher_After_Losing_Game_At_1992_US_Open
This was the last head to head match between Jimmy Connors and Ivan Lendl. It was at the 1992 US Open. Connors appeared to be very frustrated at Lendl's defensive style of play, calling him a "f***ing faggot playing pusher." A "pusher" plays a defensive style which can be very frustrating to some tennis players. It can wear down players physically, especially older players. It could be perceived as exploiting an older player's age to win games, as opposed to winning by tennis skill alone. Jimmy Connors turned 40 years old at the time of this tournament. Ivan Lendl was 32 years old.
In the comments I see that there's debate whether Connors was talking about Lendl or whether he was talking about himself. Well, in the post-match interview with Vitas Gerulaitis, Connors complained that Lendl was not hitting the ball anything like he used to and was just "bunting" the balls back to him. You can see in this one game that Lendl won all his points by Connors' errors (no outright winners). Also, Connors wouldn't be calling himself a pusher if he's the one approaching the net (which you can see he does in this game).
For any of you who still think Connors was talking about himself, please see a transcript of his post-match interview here: http://www.asapsports.com/show_interview.php?id=16333 He complains about Lendl just "bunting" the ball back to him and refers to playing Lendl "like pulling teeth."
The truth is, neither Connors nor Lendl were "pushers." They would never have become the great tennis players they became if all they did was push the ball. But sometimes putting the ball back in play and using the opponent's pace against them is a strategy to win. Connors does say "playing" pusher. Lendl did not give Connors the pace that he wanted, it frustrated Connors, and the strategy seemed to have worked out for Lendl. For the boxing fans out there, if you remember the Tyson-Holyfield matches, Holyfield used a grabbing, clinching technique that frustrated Tyson. Holyfield did not always fight that style against other opponents but he knew the technique would be effective against Tyson. I think Lendl was hitting the ball in a way he thought would work against Connors but that doesn't mean he always hit that way against other opponents. I think age also played a factor. Connors turned 40 years old. He was not nearly in the same shape that he was in during his prime.
Anyway, the following is the definition of "pusher" from Wikipedia:
In tennis, a pusher is a defensive player who "pushes" back any shot they can chase down, without deliberately hitting a winner. They can angle shots, aim deep, as well as produce effective lobs. Pushers are extremely quick and consistent, rarely making errors. This style of play, similar to a "human backboard", often tires and frustrates more offensive opponents. They will try to win games by eliciting unforced errors from the opponent, i.e. by waiting for them to make the first mistake and losing the point. Pushers love to "dink" balls back with sidespin or backspin, placing their shots at disadvantageous locations for their opponents. The pusher's strategy also tends to involve a fair amount of psychological warfare.
Sorry for the bad video quality. It was from a VHS tape from 1992, twenty-six years ago from the upload date.
- published: 14 Jan 2018
- views: 596772
3:05:32
Bjorn Borg vs Vitas Gerulaitis | Wimbledon 1977 Semi-final | Full Match Replay
This is the official Wimbledon YouTube page.
To keep up with Wimbledon throughout the year, visit wimbledon.com/mywimbledon
This is the official Wimbledon YouTube page.
To keep up with Wimbledon throughout the year, visit wimbledon.com/mywimbledon
https://wn.com/Bjorn_Borg_Vs_Vitas_Gerulaitis_|_Wimbledon_1977_Semi_Final_|_Full_Match_Replay
This is the official Wimbledon YouTube page.
To keep up with Wimbledon throughout the year, visit wimbledon.com/mywimbledon
- published: 10 Jul 2020
- views: 46457