Lea Pericoli, an Italian tennis legend from the 1950s and 60s, has passed away at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy that transcends the tennis court. Renowned not only for her tennis skill but also for her flair for fashion, Pericoli became a beloved icon who redefined what it meant to be an athlete. Her life was a tapestry of remarkable achievements, not only in sports but also in broadcasting and journalism, and she leaves an indelible mark on Italian culture and tennis worldwide.
A Tennis Star is Born
Lea Pericoli was born on March 22, 1935, in Milan, Italy. Growing up in the heart of Italy’s fashion capital, her future penchant for style may have been almost inevitable. However, it was her athletic ability that first brought her into the spotlight. As a young girl, she developed a love for tennis, a sport that was not as widely accessible to women in her era. Her natural talent quickly became apparent, and it wasn’t long before she began to make waves in the tennis world.
In an era when Italian women’s tennis was still finding its footing on the international stage, Pericoli became a beacon of hope for her country. She reached the last 16 at the French Open twice and advanced to the fourth round at Wimbledon three times, remarkable achievements that established her as one of Italy’s top players of the time. Her consistent performance and determination earned her the title of Italy’s number-one tennis player, a position she held for an astonishing 14 years between 1959 and 1976. She was also a 27-time national champion, further cementing her position as one of Italy’s greatest tennis players.
However, her influence wasn’t limited to her success on the court. Lea Pericoli’s legacy extended far beyond her trophies and titles.
A Style Icon Like No Other
While Pericoli’s accomplishments as a tennis player were significant, it was her daring sense of style that made her an international sensation. On the court, she stood out not just for her skill but for her unique outfits, many of which were adorned with feathers, fur, and other opulent details. In an era when tennis attire was often limited to functional, plain white uniforms, Pericoli broke the mold. Her fashion-forward choices earned her as much attention off the court as she did on it, making her a darling of the press and a trendsetter who pushed the boundaries of what an athlete could wear.
In 1955, at Wimbledon, Pericoli made headlines for wearing a white lace dress designed by renowned fashion house Schiaparelli. This was revolutionary at the time, as the world of sports had rarely seen such a fusion of high fashion and athletic performance. Her statement-making outfits became a talking point, and the press began to cover not only her matches but her wardrobe. She quickly earned the nickname “The Diva of the Court,” and it was clear that Pericoli had become more than just a tennis player—she was an international style icon.
Pericoli’s bold fashion choices earned her recognition not only in the sporting community but also in the wider world of fashion. She proved that women athletes could be both powerful and stylish, and her influence helped pave the way for future generations of female tennis players, such as Serena Williams, who would later be celebrated for their fashion-forward sensibilities.
Transitioning into Television and Journalism
Pericoli’s charm and charisma made her a natural fit for television, and after her tennis career, she smoothly transitioned into a career as a television presenter and journalist. Her vibrant personality and in-depth knowledge of the sport made her a perfect commentator, and she became a beloved figure in Italian broadcasting.
She hosted numerous television shows and events, where her fashion sense and media-savviness helped her further solidify her status as a public figure. Her work as a commentator allowed her to share her passion for tennis with future generations and keep her legacy alive.
Pericoli’s ability to reinvent herself beyond the tennis court is a testament to her versatility and intelligence. Where many athletes might fade into obscurity after retiring from competition, Pericoli remained in the public eye, becoming a role model not only for athletes but for women everywhere. She demonstrated that it is possible to have multiple careers and excel in them all.
Battling and Overcoming Adversity
Lea Pericoli’s life was not without its challenges. She twice fought and overcame cancer, first in 1973 and again in 2012. Her ability to face these battles with grace and resilience only added to her reputation as a fighter, both on and off the court. Her perseverance in the face of adversity was admired by many and added to the respect she garnered throughout her life.
Despite the hardships, Pericoli remained positive and engaged with life. Her bouts with illness only seemed to strengthen her resolve to live fully, and she continued her work in broadcasting and her role as a beloved figure in the tennis community.
Tributes Pour In
The tennis world has been quick to honour Pericoli’s legacy. Angelo Binaghi, president of the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation, remarked that “she was like a mother to all of us,” underscoring the influence she had on multiple generations of tennis players. Italian star Jannik Sinner, the current world number one, paid tribute on Instagram, posting a photo of the two together and writing, “A special moment I will cherish forever. A true legend of Italian tennis.”
Spanish tennis great Rafael Nadal also expressed his admiration for Pericoli, posting on Instagram, “Thanks for everything. You will always be remembered by all of us.” The respect and affection shown by tennis players both young and old speak volumes about the impact Pericoli had on the sport.
A Lasting Legacy
Lea Pericoli’s contributions to tennis, fashion, and broadcasting have left a lasting mark. Her achievements on the court laid the groundwork for Italian tennis, and her style and personality helped redefine what it meant to be a woman in sports. She wasn’t afraid to stand out, to be different, and to challenge the norms of both the tennis world and society at large.
As a television presenter and commentator, she continued to inspire future generations, while her battles with cancer showcased her resilience and strength in the face of adversity. Lea Pericoli was a trailblazer in every sense of the word, and her legacy will continue to influence the worlds of sport, fashion, and media for years to come.
Her passing marks the end of an era, but her influence will undoubtedly live on through the athletes she inspired, the fashion trends she pioneered, and the lives she touched. Lea Pericoli will forever be remembered as one of Italy’s greatest tennis players, a style icon, and a resilient, groundbreaking woman.
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