Great tribute to Fred Stolle from our co-founder Andrew! Well worth reading about the amazing connection between a legend of our sport and one of Atlas' partner companies Grand Slam Tennis Tours!
RIP Fred Stolle – A True Legend. As a tennis fan, you’d know Fred Stolle as a multiple Grand Slam champion in singles and doubles, a former world #1, a Davis Cup champion, an ESPN commentator for some of the most historic matches in tennis history, and a Hall of Famer. The list of his accolades goes on and on. But my connection with Fred wasn’t just about tennis—it was about friendship, camaraderie, and a unique partnership around the term “Grand Slam.” He was Grand Slam Sports, and we were Grand Slam Tennis Tours. Instead of any contention over our shared intellectual property, in true Fred Stolle fashion, we built a friendship and partnership that lasted for decades. Fred was a fixture at Grand Slam Tennis Tours welcome dinners, and I’ll always remember those nights at?Le Petit Chaise, the oldest restaurant in Paris, where he held court like only he could. We must have shared over 50 duck specials through the years—always with a cold Stella in hand between meet-and-greets with tennis fans and clients. And then, of course, there was Wally, the somewhat rude French waiter who became an unwitting participant in Fred’s stories. I’ll never forget the time Wally ended up on Fred’s lap, with Fred polishing his bald head with a napkin while chastising him for not knowing enough about “the greatest sport in the world.” Fred was a master storyteller. He had a rare gift—he could keep you on the edge of your seat, drawing a room in with his wit, taking a joke right to the brink of being offensive before expertly reading the room and making sure everyone left with a laugh. He was passionate about tennis and fiercely protective of its traditions and integrity. But beyond the sport, he was a loyal friend—a man who cared deeply about the people in his life. One of those special friendships was with his pal Owen Davidson, who joined him at so many of these unforgettable moments. And if Fred liked you, you knew it—because he’d make sure to give you a good ribbing. He was sharp, he was funny, and he had an uncanny ability to make you feel like you belonged. But of all the people he loved, no one compared to Pat. Every time he spoke of her, there was a twinkle in his eye. He spoke of her with such reverence and admiration—it was clear she was his heart. Fred Stolle’s impact on the sport of tennis will be remembered forever. But even more than that, his presence, his humor, and his kindness will live on in the memories of those lucky enough to share a drink, a story, or a conversation with him. RIP Fred. I’ll always remember your wit and that wry, warm smile that brought so much joy to everyone who met you.