Sadness Clouds American Tennis As the Sport’s Oldest Pioneers’ Demise During the US Open Shatters Sporting Fans

The American tennis world has suffered a major blow. The start to this year’s US Open has been quite forgettable. From John McEnroe testing positive for COVID to certain promising stars exiting the tournament early, the last slam of the year hasn’t quite found its punch yet. However, the latest announcement from the USPTA (United States Professional Tennis Association) seems to be the most upsetting of the lot.

American tennis has lost one of its finest and oldest soldiers, Jim Reffkin. The 84-year-old’s contributions to American tennis and its players have been uncountable. But with age catching up, the American was struggling with his health in recent times. However, the news of his demise has shocked everyone in the US tennis fraternity.

American tennis loses one of its finest ambassadors

Jim Reffkin, considered to be one of Southern Arizona’s greatest tennis ambassadors, recently passed away. Certain American cities have acknowledged his contribution to American tennis over the years. For instance, the City of Tucson renamed its tennis facility to the ‘Jim Reffkin Tennis Center’ in 2009 as a tribute to one of the area’s most influential sports figures. In fact, he turned Tucson into a tennis hub – and subsequently held seminars explaining why the sport flourished in the town. Reffkin’s contribution to Tucson’s tennis center once saw the USTA rank it as the Number 1 facility in the country.

The official USPTA account took to Twitter to express the massive loss to the community. They said, “The USPTA extends its condolences to the family of Jim Reffkin, one of history’s greatest tennis ambassadors who always emphasized the common good. Reffkin passed away Sunday at the age of 84. Rest in peace, Jim, and thank you for all you have done for tennis.”

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Fans and journalists across Twitter came together to remember the 84-year-old after his passing. Mourning and nostalgia were abound as the heartfelt remembrances poured in steadily.

The tennis world reacts to the passing of Jim Reffkin

The passing of such personalities has an immense emotional impact on fans everywhere. Reffkin wasn’t a very famous figure outside of the States. However, the ones aware of his humble but expansive profile had the utmost respect for him. The tweets remembering him are a testament to his legacy.

A fan also acknowledged Reffkin’s contributions to tennis. It is quite fitting that the fans make the rest of the world aware of Reffkin and how much he has done for American tennis.

A journalist also joined in and paid a small tribute to the tennis icon. He recalled working alongside Reffkin and held him in high regard.

Do you think that the USPTA should acknowledge Jim Reffkin with a larger tribute? Let us know in the comments.

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