Those who think the Irish are a temperamental group have never come face-to-face with the smiling face of Tom Gorman. This affable gentleman has played a wide range of roles in sport – from world-class singles and doubles star to tennis director for an international hotel group and Davis Cup captain. His versatility and sharp mind have earned him a reputation as one of tennis’ most well-liked people.

Beneath Gorman’s friendly persona lurks tremendous drive. In his 12-year pro career, he earned the reputation of a giant killer. On three occasions, he reached the semis of Grand Slam events, scoring big wins along the way. In ’71, he ousted top seed Rod Laver in the Wimbledon quarters. In ’72, he fought off a match point to take out Jimmy Connors in the first round of Forest Hills, and in ’73, he vanquished two-time French champ, Jan Kodes at Roland Garros. Gorman was also a standout doubles player, reaching the French finals in ’71 with Stan Smith and the semis in ’72 with Connors.

For five years, Gorman ranked in the U.S. top ten in both singles and doubles, peaking at number ten in the world in 1974. He played on three Davis Cup squads, including the U.S. squad which won the cup in 1972.

As befits someone who graduated college (University of Seattle) with a degree in economics, Gorman’s tennis is compact, focused and thoughtful. It’s a style that’s wonderfully extroverted and enterprising: Gorman is always looking to create opportunities and has been known to experiment with many tactics. His signature shot is a dynamic kick serve that he smoothly propels into any corner. It’s backed up by exceptionally nimble volleys, an athletic overhead and lucid ground strokes.

Gorman’s analytic mind and people skills made him a natural coach. Soon after his pro career ended, he coached the U.S. Wightman and Federation Cup teams. But his greatest coaching moments came when he led the U.S. Davis Cup squad for eight years (’86-’93). Tom holds the record for number of team wins at 17 matches as Captain. Gorman’s U.S. teams earned the Cup twice (’90 and ’92).