Gastao Elias on Monday joined several figures of world tennis in a tribute to Nick Bollettieri, former North American coach, founder of the IMG academy in Florida, who died last night at the age of 91.
“I was lucky to be with Nick many times, I attended several training sessions and I was also lucky to be on the field with him.” Elias said.
“He was an amazing person, full of energy. I already caught him in a more advanced age group, so I didn’t get to know him in his most energetic phase, but I always saw him very enthusiastic, willing to share information, knowledge and help.” Elias added.
Elias describes Bollettieri as a person with a lot of power, an incredible story, a lot of credibility in what he said and a very persuasive way of speaking, in which everyone stopped to listen and learn.
“IMG’s main field had bleachers and they were always full to see him training, which shows his greatness and history. He was, without a doubt, a very special person and it is unlikely that anyone will be able to share what he achieved in our sport.” Elias said.
“I am honoured to have shared the field with him countless times. It was a good period of my career and when I learned a lot.” he added.
Like the Portuguese player, the German Tommy Haas, one of Nick’s former students who reached second place in the ATP ranking in 2013, also reacted to the news of his death.
“So many memories, I don’t even know where to start. Thank you for your time, knowledge, involvement, experience, willingness to share and personal interest in supporting me and giving me as many chances to make my dreams come true.” Haas tweeted.
“You were a dreamer and a person of action, a pioneer in our sport and a unique character.” Haas added.
