Born: 1908 (Neuilly-sur-Seine, Hauts-de-Seine, France)
Died: 1980
Biography:
Simonne Mathieu (French pronunciation: [simn matjø] née Passemard; 31 January 1908 – 7 January 1980) was a female tennis player from France, born in Neuilly-sur-Seine, Hauts-de-Seine, who was active in the 1930s. During World War II, she created and led the Corps of French Volunteers in the Free French Forces.
Simonne Mathieu is best remembered for her impressive tennis career. She was a formidable competitor, winning two major singles titles at the French Championships in 1938 and 1939. In addition, she reached the final of the French Championships six more times, in 1929, 1932, 1933, 1935, 1936, and 1937. Although she faced tough opponents in these finals, including Hilde Krahwinkel Sperling, Helen Wills Moody, and Margaret Scriven, Mathieu’s talent and determination were evident throughout her matches.
In the realm of doubles, Mathieu had exceptional success, winning a total of 11 Grand Slam doubles championships. She secured three women’s doubles titles at Wimbledon in 1933, 1934, and 1937, and six women’s doubles titles at the French Championships from 1933 to 1939. Mathieu’s mixed-doubles prowess was also noteworthy, as she claimed two titles at the French Championships in 1937 and 1938. Notably, in 1938, Mathieu achieved the rare feat of winning the singles, women’s doubles, and mixed-doubles titles at the French Championships, solidifying her status as one of the all-time greats in tennis history.
Throughout her career, Mathieu consistently ranked among the top players in the world. According to A. Wallis Myers and John Olliff of The Daily Telegraph and the Daily Mail respectively, she was ranked in the world top 10 from 1929 through 1939, reaching a career-high of world No. 3 in 1932. Her impressive record and skills on the court rightfully earned her a place of honor among the greatest female tennis players of her time.
Mathieu’s contributions to the game were later commemorated in the form of the Coupe Simonne-Mathieu, the winners’ trophy of the women’s doubles event at the French Open. This recognition served as a testament to her impact and influence on the sport.
In addition to her achievements in tennis, Mathieu also played a significant role during World War II. As Captain Mathieu, she created and led the Corps Féminin Français, the women’s volunteer branch of the Free French Forces. This organization was similar to the British Auxiliary Territorial Service and played a crucial role in supporting the war effort. Mathieu’s leadership and dedication to her country during this challenging time demonstrated her courage and commitment.
For her service during the war, Mathieu and each member of the Corps Féminin Français were named an Officer of the Legion of Honor, a prestigious recognition of their contributions.
Simonne Mathieu’s remarkable legacy was further honored in 2006 when she was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Her induction was a testament to her extraordinary talent and enduring impact on the sport of tennis.
In November 2017, the French Tennis Federation (FFT) announced that the third show-court at Roland Garros would be named Court Simonne-Mathieu in her honor. This naming serves as a fitting tribute to a trailblazing athlete and inspiring leader who continues to inspire generations of tennis players.
Awards:
– Officer of the Legion of Honor
– Inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame (2006)
– Court Simonne-Mathieu at Roland Garros named in her honor