Vijay Armitraj

Vijay Armitraj to be inducted into International Tennis Hall of Fame

Jul 16, 2024

Soon, Vijay Armitraj will be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Looking back, I can remember watching his incredibly smooth, silky game at the US Open when I was just a kid. I'm so thrilled to see him receive this honor.

As reported in The Sun, Armitraj had an exceptional run on the pro tour for over 23 years, enjoying 15 career singles titles, and blockbuster wins over the likes of Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg, Jimmy Connors, and John McEnroe. The 6'4" tennis star from India transcended the sport when he appeared as an MI6 intelligence operative conveniently named Vijay in a James Bond film.

Above: Vijay Armitraj was also a movie star appearing alongside James Bond portrayed by Roger Moore. Photo: Instagram @vijayamritraj007.

But there's so much more to Armitraj than career wins and Bond movies. According to the International Hall of Fame, "Amritraj was one of India’s greatest players in the Open Era, anchoring India’s Davis Cup squad to its only two Finals appearances in 1974 and 1987; in 1974, he played a key role in India’s boycott of the Final against South Africa to demonstrate against Apartheid.

Post-retirement, Amritraj has become the face of tennis broadcasting in Asia and the Middle East, sharing the sport with millions during the Grand Slams. As an administrator, he helped to expand professional tennis’ presence in India, including the ATP Chennai Open, WTA’s Chennai Open and two ATP Challenger events.

Above: Vijay Armitraj will be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2024. Image: International Tennis Hall of Fame.

Amritraj has consistently worked to advance humanitarian causes and the greater good. In 2001, he became the first Indian to serve as United Nations Messenger of Peace. Since 2006, the Vijay Amritraj Foundation has provided education, and basic needs for women and children in India’s neediest communities."

When told he was getting inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame, Amritraj said, "This is truly a blessing, and an honor to be included in the history of tennis, among the greats who have played and served the sport. Acknowledging the culmination of a career that started with illness and now to be inducted in the International Tennis Hall of Fame, is making impossible dreams come true. It is a gift from above for me and my family and an honor for India.”

The International Hall of Fame recently released a number of fascinating videos about Amritraj providing insight into this legend's journey to (and epic run in) pro tennis and beyond. Check out the short videos below.