The council of International Lawn Tennis Clubs (IC) has confirmed the death of Janine Borotra, wife of former French player Jean Borotra.
Ms Borotra attended a dinner held by the French Tennis Federation on Saturday afternoon during Davis Cup tie between France and Belgium. Other attendees included Pierre Barthes, Patrick Proisy, Thierry Tulasne ansd Roger Vasselin. Shortly after, she returned back to her hotel unwell and suffered a heart attack. She passed away in hospital where she was accompanied by former player Thierry Pham. She was 80-years-old.
“Janine was irrepressible. She had a sharp eye for what needed to be done by the IC – and made sure, with that twinkle in her eye, that we did it. Her love of the International Club knew no bounds and was exceeded only by her love for her late husband, Jean.” The IC said in a statement.
Janine married Borotra in 1988. He is regarded as one of the most significant figures in the history of French tennis. During the 1920s and 1930s Borotra was one of four French players that dominated men’s tennis. Winning 18 grand slam titles in both singles and doubles. Along with Jacques Brugnon, Henri Cochet and René Lacoste, the quartet was named the ‘four musketeers.’ Winning every Davis Cup title between 1927-1932.
The legacy of the Borotra and his countrymen is still recognised at the French Open. The men’s trophy at the French Open is named Coupe des Mousquetaires in their honour.
It is a cruel coincidence that the passing of Janine occurred on the weekend as France won their tenth Davis Cup title. Her husband, who passed away in 1994, played in the competition for a total of 17 years. The longest of all-time amongst French players. In total, he participated in ten Davis Cup finals.
