Jean Borotra
French tennis player and Davis Cup champion
Achieved significant success in tennis during the 1920s and 1930s. Borotra won four Grand Slam singles titles, including the French Open and Wimbledon. He played an integral role in the French Davis Cup team, contributing to their victories in 1927 and 1928. Known for his powerful serve and competitive spirit, Borotra was part of a group of players that helped elevate the sport's popularity in France. In addition to his singles titles, he excelled in doubles, winning multiple championships with various partners.
Won four Grand Slam singles titles
Contributed to French Davis Cup victories in 1927 and 1928
Other People Born on August 13th
Alicja Tchórz
Polish swimmer and record holder
Born
August 13th, 1992 33 years ago
Achieved prominence as a competitive swimmer specializing in backstroke and individual medley events. Competed in multiple European Championships and World Championships, securing medals and breaking national records. Represented Poland in the 200m backstroke and 100m backstroke at international competitions. Participated in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, contributing to Poland's swimming team efforts. Competed for various clubs, enhancing the visibility of Polish swimming on the world stage.
Continue ReadingDevin McCourty
American football safety and Super Bowl champion
Born
August 13th, 1987 38 years ago
Played as a safety in the National Football League for the New England Patriots from 2010 to 2021. Contributed to three Super Bowl victories, specifically Super Bowl XLIX, LI, and LIII. Served as a team captain, demonstrating leadership on and off the field. Known for strong defensive skills and being a part of a historically successful franchise.
Continue ReadingAntonia Lottner
Professional Tennis Player - German Championships
Born
August 13th, 1996 29 years ago
Competed at a high level in women's tennis, participating in various international tournaments. Achieved significant rankings within the Women's Tennis Association (WTA). Won multiple titles in lower-tier tournaments and reached advanced rounds in prestigious events. Represented Germany in team competitions, contributing to the national team's efforts.
Continue ReadingDave Days
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 13th, 1991 34 years ago
Gained popularity through YouTube with original songs and covers. Released singles such as 'Jessica Is Alive' and 'When I Grow Up'. Collaborated with other YouTube personalities and musicians, contributing to a blend of social media influence and music. Developed a significant online presence, enabling a transition to live performances and a dedicated fanbase. Engaged in various musical projects and maintained a career in the music industry.
Continue ReadingFilip Forsberg
Swedish ice hockey player, Nashville Predators
Born
August 13th, 1994 31 years ago
A professional ice hockey player, contributed significantly to the Nashville Predators in the NHL. Forsberg was drafted by the Washington Capitals in the first round of the 2012 NHL Draft. After a season with the Capitals, he was traded to the Predators in 2013 and has since become a key player for the team. Notable for his scoring ability and playmaking skills, Forsberg has participated in multiple NHL All-Star Games and played a crucial role in the Predators' run to the Stanley Cup Final in 2017.
Continue ReadingAlona Bondarenko
Ukrainian tennis player and Grand Slam doubles champion
Born
August 13th, 1984 41 years ago
A professional tennis player from Ukraine, achieved significant success in doubles competition. Bondarenko earned a Grand Slam title at the 2008 Australian Open, partnering with her sister, Kateryna Bondarenko. Throughout the career, reached a career-high doubles ranking of World No. 19 and competed in various prestigious tournaments on the WTA Tour. Participated in the Fed Cup representing Ukraine, contributing to the national team's efforts in the competition.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 17th
Charles Grey
English Prime Minister, Earl Grey Tea
Born
March 13th, 1764 261 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1845 180 years ago — 81 years old
Held the title of 2nd Earl Grey and served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1830 to 1834. Implemented significant political reforms, including the Reform Act of 1832, which expanded the electorate and addressed issues of representation in Parliament. Promoted social reforms and played a role in the abolition of slavery in the British Empire. Contributed to the establishment of the Whig Party as a major political force during his time in office.
Continue ReadingLeszek Kołakowski
Historian and philosopher of ideas
Born
October 23rd, 1927 98 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2009 16 years ago — 81 years old
A Polish historian and philosopher, focused on the critique of Marxism and the history of ideas. Born in 1927, intellectual pursuits began early, leading to significant contributions in philosophy and political theory. After World War II, involvement in various political activities took place, later transitioning to an academic career. In the 1960s, an important polemic against Marxism emerged through published works. Later, moved to England where influential writings on religion and social theory followed. Died in 2009, leaving a legacy of critical thought and philosophical inquiry.
Continue ReadingBruiser Brody
Professional wrestler and wrestling icon
Born
June 18th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1988 37 years ago — 42 years old
A prominent figure in professional wrestling during the 1970s and 1980s, included matches in major promotions such as World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF) and Japan's All Japan Pro Wrestling. Known for a fierce persona and an unorthodox style, cultivated a devoted fan base and left a lasting legacy within the industry. Became a key player in the transition towards more aggressive wrestling styles, influencing both wrestlers and promotions that followed.
Continue ReadingHector Malot
French author of 'Sans Famille'
Born
May 20th, 1830 195 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1907 118 years ago — 77 years old
Born in France in 1830, a prominent author emerged, primarily recognized for writing the well-regarded novel 'Sans Famille'. This work, published in 1878, tells the story of an orphaned boy's adventures as he navigates through various challenges in search of his family. The author also contributed significantly to literature through other writings, including plays and novels, that explored themes of society and relationships. Parallel to his literary career, he was involved in journalism, allowing him to engage with contemporary issues of his time. His works have been translated into many languages, showcasing the breadth of his influence in literature.
Continue ReadingJules Bianchi
Formula One race car driver
Born
August 3rd, 1989 36 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 25 years old
A French race car driver competed in Formula One for the Marussia team from 2013 to 2015. Bianchi had a successful career in lower racing categories, winning the Formula Renault 2.0 Eurocup and the FIA Formula 2 Championship. His time in Formula One was marked by notable performances, including a remarkable 9th place finish at the 2014 Monaco Grand Prix. Tragically, an accident at the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix led to severe injuries, resulting in his death in 2015 after a long hospitalization.
Continue ReadingRobert Bolling
Colonial planter and merchant
Born
December 26th, 1646 378 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1709 316 years ago — 62 years old
A merchant and planter in colonial Virginia, played a significant role in the economy of the region. Managed multiple plantations and engaged in trade, which contributed to the growth of the Virginia colony. Established a family legacy through marriage to Jane Rolfe, the granddaughter of Pocahontas, further linking the Bolling family to notable historical figures in American history. In his lifetime, contributed to the agricultural practices in Virginia, especially in tobacco cultivation.
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