Pancho Gonzales

American tennis champion and legend

Pancho Gonzales - Athletes & Sports Figures born May 9th, 1928
Born
Died
Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent American tennis player, celebrated for dominating the sport in the 1950s. Achieved significant success in both singles and doubles, winning numerous championship titles. Excelled on grass courts and hard courts. Secured the U.S. Championships in 1948, 1949, and 1950, and was the first player to earn a significant sum for competing professionally. Known for fierce rivalries and engaging playing style, contributed greatly to the popularity of tennis.

Won U.S. Championships in 1948, 1949, and 1950

First professional player to earn over $1 million

Championed the sport during its professionalization

Other People Born on May 9th

Svein Tuft

Canadian Cyclist; National Time Trial Champion
Born
May 9th, 1977 48 years ago

Born in 1977, this Canadian cyclist specialized in road racing and time trials. Competed primarily in professional cycling events throughout his career. Won multiple Canadian National Time Trial Championships and participated in prestigious international competitions, including the Tour de France. Achieved notable success with professional teams, demonstrating a strong performance in time trial events and stage races.

Continue Reading

Gilles Müller

Tennis player; Wimbledon quarterfinalist
Born
May 9th, 1983 42 years ago

A professional tennis player from Luxembourg, he competed on the ATP tour mainly from the early 2000s into the late 2010s. He achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 26 in 2017. Significant performances occurred at major Grand Slam tournaments, including a quarterfinal appearance at Wimbledon in 2017. Müller also had success at smaller ATP tournaments, securing two titles during his career. His playing style was characterized by a strong serve and aggressive baseline play, contributing to a successful career in the sport. He retired from professional tennis in 2018.

Continue Reading

Grant Hackett

Olympic swimmer and world record holder
Born
May 9th, 1980 45 years ago

This swimmer specialized in long-distance freestyle events and achieved considerable success in international competitions. Competed in the 2000, 2004, and 2008 Olympics, winning multiple gold medals. Dominated the World Championships with several titles and set world records in the 1500 meters freestyle. Career highlighted by outstanding performances at national and global levels, showcasing talent and dedication to the sport.

Continue Reading

Steve Yzerman

Ice hockey player and general manager
Born
May 9th, 1965 60 years ago

Played for the Detroit Red Wings in the NHL from 1983 to 2006, serving as team captain for over two decades. Achieved significant success, including three Stanley Cup championships in 1997, 1998, and 2002. After retiring as a player, transitioned into a management role, becoming the general manager of the Tampa Bay Lightning and leading the team to a Stanley Cup title in 2020. Recognized for leadership both on and off the ice.

Continue Reading

Tegla Loroupe

Kenyan long-distance runner and champion
Born
May 9th, 1973 52 years ago

A long-distance runner from Kenya, excelled in road running events, notably the marathon. Won the New York City Marathon in 1994 and 1995, becoming the first African woman to achieve this feat. Secured victory in the Paris Marathon on multiple occasions, showcasing remarkable endurance and speed. Played a significant role in promoting peace and advocating for children through sports initiatives. Established the Tegla Loroupe Peace Foundation, focusing on education and women’s empowerment in Africa.

Continue Reading

Marek Jankulovski

Czech footballer and UEFA Euro 2004 finalist
Born
May 9th, 1977 48 years ago

Marek Jankulovski played professional football as a left-back in Europe, primarily for AC Milan and the Czech national team. Jankulovski started his career at Baník Ostrava before moving to Italy, where he gained recognition during his time with Udinese. His tenure at AC Milan included winning multiple Serie A titles and the UEFA Champions League in 2007. Jankulovski was an integral part of the Czech national team, participating in the UEFA Euro 2004, where the team reached the final.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 3rd

Clive Hornby

English actor in 'Emmerdale'
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 2008 17 years ago — 64 years old

An English actor and drummer prominently featured in the British soap opera 'Emmerdale' as Jack Sugden from 1980 to 2008. Aside from acting, involvement in music included drumming for local bands. His role in 'Emmerdale' marked a significant portion of his career, contributing to the show's long-standing presence on British television. Earned recognition for portraying a central character across multiple decades, witnessing the evolution of the series.

Continue Reading

Nguyễn Hữu Có

Vietnamese general and politician
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old

A general in the Vietnam People's Army, contributed to military strategies during the Vietnam War. Held various high-ranking positions in the Vietnamese government after the war. Participated in post-war reconstruction efforts and served in influential roles within the Communist Party of Vietnam. Retired from active politics and continued to influence military policies until death.

Continue Reading

Richard Alvin Tonry

American lawyer and politician
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 77 years old

Richard Alvin Tonry served as a prominent lawyer and politician in the United States. He held various political positions throughout his career, influencing both state and national legislation. A key figure in legal reforms, he focused on improving the judicial system and promoting civic engagement among the populace. His career spanned several decades, during which significant changes in law and policy were enacted under his guidance. Tonry was also active in community service, dedicating time to various organizations that aimed to improve social conditions.

Continue Reading

Boots Randolph

Saxophonist known for 'Yakety Sax'
Born
June 3rd, 1927 98 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 2007 18 years ago — 80 years old

A renowned American saxophonist and composer, primarily associated with the genre of jazz and pop music. Gained significant recognition for the hit single 'Yakety Sax', which became a popular novelty tune and has been widely used in television and film, notably in the Benny Hill Show. Contributed to the music industry as a session musician, collaborating with various artists and recording numerous albums throughout a prolific career spanning several decades. Also performed extensively, showcasing a unique style and blend of dynamics that captivated audiences.

Continue Reading

Diana Douglas

Actress, known for 'The Red Danube'
Born
January 22nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1923, this British-American actress gained recognition for her work in film and television. Prominent roles included appearances in 'The Red Danube' and the television series 'The Detectives'. Throughout a career spanning several decades, she showcased talent in both supporting and lead roles, contributing to various productions in Hollywood and television. Continuing to act into her later years, she maintained a presence in the entertainment industry until her retirement.

Continue Reading

Saroj Khan

Indian dance choreographer
Born
November 22nd, 1948 77 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 2020 5 years ago — 71 years old

Renowned dance choreographer significantly contributed to Bollywood dance by choreographing numerous iconic songs. Began career in the film industry in the 1970s and gained prominence for the elaborate and expressive dance sequences that became a hallmark of Indian cinema. Collaborated with several leading actors and worked on notable films including 'Tezaab', 'Dil' and 'Devdas'. Established a distinctive style that influenced generations of dancers and choreographers in India. Recognized for contributions to film and dance through awards and accolades.

Continue Reading