20 February 2026 | Tennis Victoria

Tennis Victoria is deeply saddened by the passing of Dr John Gavan Fraser (OAM), former President of Tennis Victoria, former Vice President of Tennis Australia, a Tennis Australia and Tennis Victoria Life Member, and a distinguished figure in Victorian tennis – whose impact on our sport will be felt for generations. 

The father of five children and grandfather of 15 grandchildren, John’s contribution to tennis was extraordinary. As a player, he competed at the very highest level, reaching the singles and doubles semifinals at Wimbledon in 1962, partnering with Rod Laver, and later progressing to the singles quarterfinals of the Australian Open Championships in 1963. He also won nine A-Grade Victorian Tennis Pennants for the Melbourne Cricket Club. He proudly represented his club and his state, carrying the values of Victorian tennis onto the world stage. 

For his contributions to the sport, he was awarded the OAM for service to tennis at state, national and international levels through administrative roles, and to sports medicine. 

Beyond his achievements on court, John devoted his professional life to the care and wellbeing of athletes. After graduating from the University of Melbourne in 1958, he became a respected general practitioner and a pioneer in sports medicine. He served as the official doctor to the Australian Davis Cup team and as Honorary Medical Officer of the Australian Open from 1963 to 1998, supporting generations of players with quiet expertise and deep compassion. 

His leadership within our sport was equally significant. As President of Tennis Victoria from 1983 to 1996, John helped guide the organisation through a period of growth and change, strengthening the foundations of tennis across the state. He later contributed to the International Tennis Federation (ITF) Medical Commission from 1995 to 2003, playing a role in shaping the sport’s early drug testing framework and reinforcing integrity within the global game. 

Above all, John will be remembered for his lifelong commitment to Victorian tennis. He gave his time, knowledge and care generously, always focused on the health of the sport and the people within it. 

Tennis Victoria CEO Kim Kachel expressed his sadness upon hearing of John’s passing. 

“John’s passion for tennis was unmistakable. He gave so much of himself to the game as an elite player, a leader, a top administrator and a doctor who cared deeply for the sport. His warmth, generosity, and lifelong commitment to Victorian tennis will be remembered with great affection. Our thoughts are with his family as we honour an extraordinary man,” Kachel said. 

We extend our heartfelt condolences to John’s family and loved ones, and to all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

Vale Dr John Gavan Fraser (OAM)