How the Death of Princess Diana Almost Forced Tennis Star Greg Rusedski Out of the US Open

Greg Rusedski, a former British No.1, served as the nation’s sporting diversion in the turbulent months that followed Princess Diana’s unexpected death in 1997. When he made an unexpected run to the final of the US Open, the country had something to cheer about amidst a national tragedy. In an interview, Greg Rusedski recalled the tragic event and his run at the 1997 US Open.

Princess Diana reportedly suffered serious injuries in a late-night car crash in Paris. The details about the accident were unclear at first. However, by nightfall, her demise was confirmed. Rusedski was about to play in the US Open the very next day.

Greg Rusedski almost backed out from the 1997 US Open

Rusedski was competing in the 1997 US Open when word of Princess Diana’s terrible passing spread. Understandably, the debate about him withdrawing from the tournament was going around at the time. Later, in an interview, he recalled, “There was a discussion about whether I should pull out and I talked it through with Lucy. In the end, we decided it was right to play and I would wear a black ribbon on my sleeve as a mark of respect.”

Rusedski, a Canadian native, entered the US Open, having never won all three of his previous matches. He was considered a huge underdog, much like Emma Raducanu last year.

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In the round of 16, the World No. 20 at the time defeated Vacek in straight sets. Rusedski continued a pattern of better play that had started earlier that year when he paired up with coach Brian Teacher.

How did Flushing Meadows help Rusedski’s performance?

Rusedski remarked the following about the mood at Flushing Meadows, ‘Flushing Meadows was quite changed for that tournament because it was the year that the Arthur Ashe Stadium came into use..“

He added, “My preparations had been excellent for the tournament. Earlier that summer, I had reached the quarters at Wimbledon and continued to have some good results after that.” Rusedski played against the Australian serve Pat Rafter in the finals. Despite Rusedski putting in a valiant effort in the third set, Rafter won the final and lifted the coveted trophy.

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Rusedski turned out to be Britain’s first finalist at the US Open. After that, Rusedski enjoyed a few good years on the tour and played as Britain’s number 1 ranked tennis player. The 1997 final in Flushing Meadows was his only appearance in a Grand Slam final and he retired with any major titles to his name.