Andres Gimeno Tolaguera

Andres Gimeno Tolaguera was born on August 3, 1937 in Barcelona, Spain. He is especially known for being the oldest player to win the French Open at the age of 34 years and 10 months.

Before turning professional, Gimeno was one of Spain’s premier amateur sportsmen and became incredibly popular and was even hailed a national hero. Gimeno turned professional in the year 1960 which was also the same year where he became the first Spanish player to win the Torneo Godo. Gimeno, fondly called “The Catalon” won his first and only Grand Slam in 1972 and became the most controversial player to do so. Gimeno still holds the record for being the oldest male player to win the French Open nearly at the age of 35 years old after defeating Patrick Proisy in four sets with a score of 4-6, 6-3, 6-1, and 61. Gimeno’s other Grand Slam participation include reaching the final at the 1969 Australian Open, the semifinals at the 1968 French Open, the semifinals at Wimbledon in 1970, the quarterfinals at the 1958 Australian Championships as well as the 1960 and 1969 French Championships. Gimeno lost in the finals of the 1969 Australian Open against Rod Laver in three sets.

Gimeno was known for his great overhead smash, strong volleys, and formidable forehand. Gimeno played tennis with exceptional grace and balance. During his career, he won a record of seven singles titles and four doubles titles. His highest career ranking was World number 9. He also played the Davis Cup for Spain from the years 1958-60, 1972 and 1973. Gimeno posted a playing record of 23-10 in the Davis Cup.

Andres Gimeno was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2009.