Yola Ramírez obit

Yolanda Ramírez Passes Away; A Legend Has Died

 

She was not on the list.

Yolanda Ramírez, widely regarded as the greatest tennis player in Mexican history, has passed away at the age of 90.

The Puebla government, her birthplace, announced the news of her passing, highlighting her remarkable achievement of winning a Grand Slam title in doubles at the 1958 . Throughout her illustrious career, she secured a total of 29 titles in singles and an additional four in doubles.

Known affectionately as "Yola la Grande" during her playing days, she had just celebrated her birthday on March 1st, just a week prior to her death.

In a statement shared on social media, the Puebla government mourned the loss of Yola Ramírez, stating, "With deep sorrow, we lament the passing of Yola Ramírez, the finest tennis player from Teziutlán, who proudly carried the name of our state around the world. Her victories at Roland Garros and other international tournaments are but a testament to her talent, dedication, and love for the sport. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations!".

Yolanda Ramírez began her path to success in 1954 when she first competed in a Grand Slam at Roland Garros, where she reached the finals in singles in 1960 and 1961. She achieved her Grand Slam title in doubles in 1958, partnering with fellow Mexican Rosie Reyes, defeating the Australian duo of Mary Bevis Hawton and Thelma Coyne Long with scores of 6-4 and 7-5.

"This is a very sad day for the entire Mexican tennis family. Yola was a role model and an example to follow. A star of tennis has dimmed in Mexico and around the world," said Carlos González López Lara, the president of the Mexican Tennis Federation. "Her legacy will endure on every court, in every racquet lifted with passion, and in every young player who dreams of representing Mexico."

Yolanda Ramírez's tennis career spanned until 1963, during which she also had notable achievements in mixed doubles competitions, partnering with renowned players such as Gustavo Palafox and Francisco Contreras.