By Ted LePak Photo Credit: George Herringshaw
(February 23, 2012) Spanish tennis star Manuel Orantes, the 1975 US Open champion and former world No. 2, will be inducted to the International Tennis Hall of Fame this year. Other additional members of the 2012 Class will be announced within the upcoming months before the Induction Ceremony hosted July 14 at the International Tennis Hall of Fame & Museum in Newport, Rhode Island. Orantes is the only inductee in the Master Player Category thus far.
The left-handed star won 33 singles titles, and compiled an impressive record of 647-247. He has a career doubles record of 298-155 and won 22 titles.
But what Orantes might be most known for is his contributions to the Spanish Davis Cup team. In Davis Cup records, Orantes is tied for the most number of years played and won 60 matches for his country. In 2009, Orantes was presented the Davis Cup Award of Excellence by the International Tennis Hall of Fame and the International Tennis Federation.
Orantes will be the fifth Spanish inductee to the International Tennis Hall of Fame and will be joining other Spanish legends Manuel Alonso, Andrés Gimeno, Arantxa Sánchez-Vicario, and Manuel Santana.
To qualify for a spot in the Master Player Category, the nominees must have been retired for at least 20 years prior to consideration, hold a distinguished record of competitive achievement at the highest international level, with consideration given to integrity, sportsmanship, and character.