October 7, 2024

Open Court

MORE TENNIS THAN YOU'LL EVER NEED

Peter Doohan diagnosed with ALS

Aussie Peter Doohan, best known on the ATP Tour for one shining, improbable moment but a fine player for more than a decade, has received some tragic news.

According to his Facebook post, the 56-year-old Aussie has been diagnosed with ALS, better known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

“Well, got rough news last nite from neuro Doc in Sydney ! He diagnosed me with MND (motor neurone disease) with only months to live …. Like my friend Dave in Nelson Bay said when told he was terminal; “I’ve had a great time !” What a life I’ve had, no regrets … Of course I’ll battle on with hope experimental immuno-drug works wonders in coming weeks !”

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Doohan first came to the US to attend the University of Arkansas where he was all-American and an NCAA champion. He stayed on for 20 years in a variety of coaching roles after a long pro career.

As a pro, the Aussie reached No. 15 in the doubles rankings and won five titles. But his immortal moment in singles came almost exactly 30 years ago.

Doohan was ranked No. 58 when he faced two-time defending champion and No. 1 seed Boris Becker in the second round of Wimbledon in 1987.

He shocked Becker – and everyone in tennis – 7-6, 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 in a victory that still ranks among the biggest all-time upsets.

Doohan has two sons. What terrible news.

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