It’s odd to think of athletes washed up in their 30s, but its true that very few make it past 35 with their knees intact. It’s even more surprising for tennis players, who have started their careers at early ages. So, we found it amazing to hear about a name that has barely made the radar, yet endures, Fabrice Santoro, nicknamed “the magician”. His career spans 20 years, and a few eras, playing champs Connors and Nadal. His endurance has allowed him to play almost all ATP ranked players since 1973.

The upcoming United States Open would be Santoro’s 69th major championship; his first was the 1989 French Open. Another way to view his longevity: Of the 24 players who have been ranked No. 1 in the ATP rankings, which began in 1973, Santoro played 20, beating most at least once.

It’s not likely that anyone predicts a win for Santoro, or even a great ranking going into next month’s US Open, but it is clear that tennis needs, and relies upon to an extent, someone like Santoro. He’s a real throwback, a manly figure that plays with two hands, and we will be watching him rapt, cheering his every victory just because he represents our own undying spirit for sport.

via New York Times