Mary Carillo: an iconic broadcaster ready for the Hall of Fame

In August, Mary Carillo will be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame alongside Roger Federer in what promises to be an unforgettable ceremony. Carillo will enter the Contributor Category, honouring those “who have made a transcendent impact” on tennis. Speaking to Viv and Matt from her home in Florida, Carillo – one of the sport’s best storytellers – recalled discovering the game as a child in New York City, where she joined the same local club as John McEnroe. They were later coached by the legendary Harry Hopman and went on to win the 1977 Roland Garros mixed doubles title together. While Carillo’s pro career, in which she rose to world No.33 in singles, was cut short by knee injuries, she was quickly discovered and shone as a tennis broadcaster – calling some of the sport’s greatest matches, covering its defining eras and rivalries, and blazing a trail for women in commentary. Her broadcasting career has since expanded well beyond tennis, spanning Olympics coverage, documentary making and even national dog shows, while earning multiple awards – including six Emmys and three prestigious Peabodys. Approaching her 50th year as a broadcaster, Carillo still covers, and clearly adores, tennis – a passion that shines throughout this memorable interview.

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