Gonzalez, Pancho, << guhn ZAH lihs, PAHN choh >> (1928-1995), was an American tennis star known for his smooth, powerful serve and competitive spirit. He also spelled his name Gonzales. In 1948, Gonzalez, a Mexican American, became the first Hispanic player to win the grand slam. At that time, the grand slam consisted of the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and United States National championships After winning the U.S. National Championships (now the US Open) again in 1949, Gonzalez turned professional. He was thus barred from playing in the sport’s major events because professionals were not allowed to compete in amateur tournaments until 1968. Gonzalez did win the United States Pro Championships a record eight times, from 1953 to 1959 and again in 1961. He also played on the American team that defeated Australia for the Davis Cup in 1949.
Ricardo Alonso Gonzalez was born on May 9, 1928, in Los Angeles. He had a long career, competing in major tournaments into the 1970’s. He died on July 3, 1995.
