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Italian great Nicola Pietrangeli always thrived during the claycourt season. He is a two-time Roland Garros champion from his four finals appearances, and a two-time Italian Open champion, winning his 1961 final against Aussie legend Rod Laver. In fact, his name is forever associated with the Rome Masters given one of the show courts there is named in his honour. Frequently lauded as the world's most beautiful tennis court thanks to its sunken position, marble terraces and surrounding statues, it was where producer Ursin Caderas caught up with Pietrangeli during the prestigious tournament. One of the game’s great players and personalities, Pietrangeli touches on his start in pro tennis as a linesman, the contrast between generations, this golden era of Italian tennis and why champions are born and not built.
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"The Sit-Down with Nicola Pietrangeli" is an episode of The Sit-Down. Runtime 18 min. Published June 8, 2025. Hit play above to stream it here, or open the free Spot Sports app for background play and offline downloads.