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TENNIS COMMUNITY IN MOURNING AFTER DEATH OF LEGENDARY COACH



Tributes have poured in for Roger Federer's former coach Peter Lundgren who passed away aged 59.


Lundgren battled diabetes and was forced to have his left foot and lower left leg amputated after suffering from a fracture last year.


A career-high ranking of 25 in singles and a finalist at the Australian Open men's doubles as a player paved the way for a successful coaching period for the Swede.


He coached 20-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer between 2000 and 2003, helping the Swiss maestro claim 10 ATP titles and a maiden Grand Slam crown at Wimbledon.


Lundgren's daughter Julia and son Lukas shared the tragic news on Facebook, saying: "Rest in peace dad. One of the best has unfortunately left us far too soon.


"A coach, player, friend, and father. An inspiration and helping hand for many, both on and off the court.


"The imprint you made and the memories will always live on."


The former Wimbledon fourth round participant also coached the likes of Stan Wawrinka, Grigor Dimitrov, Marat Safin and Marcos Baghdatis.


11-time Grand Slam champion Bjorn Borg complimented his Swedish compatriot's life.


"Peter Lundgren was a wonderful person with a big heart and a lot of humour," Borg told Sportbladet. "He was a really good friend. He was loved by all. He will be missed in the tennis world."


Australian coach Darren Cahill also paid his respects, commenting on X: "RIP Peter. A good man with a kind soul. A helluva coach also."


When Federer won Wimbledon in 2003 against Mark Philippoussis, Lundgren greatly appreciated the achievement.


"It was a very special moment for both of us," he said. "I've always wanted to win Wimbledon since I started playing tennis. I made the round of 16 as a player, which is not bad, and I won as a coach, something that makes me very happy."

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