The Hindu : Sport : Jayakumar passes away

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Wednesday, Jun 01, 2005

Sport

Sport - Sports : General

Jayakumar passes away

Chennai: Jayakumar Royappa, 51, a former tennis international from Chennai, passed away following a heart attack at his Anna Nagar residence on Sunday night. Son of late E.P. Royappa, ICS, a former Chief Secretary of Tamil Nadu, the tall and wiry Jayakumar was known for his powerful serve and whipping forehand.

His unorthodox and wristy play made him an extraordinary player who troubled many prominent players. As a junior he was in the top five and won the National hardcourt title.

He was also a member of the Indian Davis Cup squad. He played extensively in the U.S. and Europe (mostly Spain and France) and won a number of titles, including the Scottish Open at Edinburgh.

He twice reached the second round at Wimbledon and once lost a close match to Vitas Gerulaitis, then World No. 3.

He also beat John Lloyd and Mark Cox of the U.K., Yohan Krick of South Africa, P. Porthes of France,

Marty Riessen of the U.S. and Mark Edmondson of Australia. After retirement, he coached in Cyprus and in Chennai.

He is survived by wife, Selvi, and son Eddie Paul (14) and Angelia (8).

The Tamil Nadu Tennis Association condoled his death. — Special Correspondent

Printer friendly page
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Sport