Borg honored during Wimbledon
July 17, 2015
Newport, R.I. — The International Tennis Hall of Fame is gearing up for the annual presentation of tennis’ highest honor, Hall of Fame induction, which will be celebrated this weekend at the Hall of Fame in Newport, R.I. Last week, at a special ceremony during Wimbledon, Hall of Famer Bjorn Borg was honored by presentation of a one-of-a-kind gold ring symbolizing his induction into the Hall of Fame in 1987. The ring was presented by Hall of Fame Chairman Christopher E. Clouser and Hall of Famer Rod Laver. Hall of Famer Cliff Drysdale and ESPN’s Mary Joe Fernandez participated in the ceremony, which was hosted by Rolex on site at Wimbledon.
“Bjorn Borg’s legacy in our sport is remarkable. He achieved extraordinary success, and he inspired a love for tennis in fans around the world. He is an outstanding ambassador for our sport. It was an honor to celebrate him by presentation of his Hall of Fame ring at Wimbledon, where he delivered so many memorable moments in our sport’s history. We enjoyed celebrating Bjorn once again in this ring ceremony with our partners at Rolex.”
Borg commented, “Rod was my idol growing up. It’s very special to me that Rod presented my Hall of Fame ring today.”
Bjorn Borg won 11 major titles in 7 years, including 5 consecutive Wimbledon titles. He also won 6 French Open titles, and three times he accomplished the notable feat of winning Wimbledon and the French Open back-to-back. Twice he was the champion at the year-end finals, and he won 64 titles overall. He led Sweden to Davis Cup victory in 1975. Borg compiled a winning record of 82.7% of matches played – second only to Rafael Nadal. He achieved the world No. 1 ranking, and his signature style, prowess on court, and cool persona drove scores of fans to embrace tennis around the world.
The Hall of Fame rings are one-of-a-kind pieces that are being presented to Hall of Famers at tennis events around the world that are of particular significance to the individual to commemorate their recognition as being among the sport’s greatest champions. The rings bear a green stone set in gold and each one is etched with the Hall of Famer’s name.