A Profile (by Gene Malin)

So much has been written and said about Vijay Amritraj, that one needs to spotlight those aspects of his life that take him beyond just another celebrity with a foundation. In fact when I looked at the facts, it seemed that Vijay had been preparing for the foundation all his life.

The most enduring image I have of Vijay is of him applauding Jimmy Connors’ shot in the middle of the match of his life (Wimbledon Quarter-finals 1981).

A gentleman with values that go beyond winning to caring. In fact, Vijay’s best moments have been off the tennis court. For starters, earning the respect of his compatriots -being elected for 5 terms as the President of ATP Tour Player Council. Then, as Lead Anchor and Host of ESPN Star Sports for Wimbledon; US Open as well as PGA events, he is one of the most recognizable faces and figures in the world of high profile sports.

Through his numerous acts of giving back like establishing the Britannia Amritraj Tennis Academy to help deserving players – a unique program that provides, training, funding and even boarding and lodging. Or, his role as the UN Messenger of Peace. Or carrying the Olympic Torch at Seoul, he has made an impact on the world around him, as well as become a symbol of India in the International world. Vijay acts on his belief of receiving through giving and his life is a testimony to that spirit. Each of his successes can be traced back to the acts of giving with humility, be it his sportsmanship, his talent, his time or his business acumen.

Vijay's Honors

President of ATP Tour Council 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1994
Since 1991, Lead Anchor and Host of Wimbledon, US Open for ESPN Star Sports
Appointed United Nations Messenger of Peace on February 9, 2001
Awarded the prestigious Pierre Coubertin Award by the United Nations in Paris in November 1988
Awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India, for enhancing the prestige of India
Carried the Olympic Torch at the 1988 Seoul Olympics
Named Davis Cup Centennial Ambassador by the Int. Tennis Federation in 1999
Awarded the Key to the City by Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley
First Asian unanimously elected to Honorary Membership to the All England Lawn Tennis Club in Wimbledon