Elena Pero, the defining voice of tennis coverage who spent decades chronicling the sport’s biggest triumphs including the rise of Jannik Sinner, has died at the age of 60 following a long illness. Her final broadcast took place on July 12, 2026, when she called Sinner’s second Wimbledon victory alongside analysts Paolo Bertolucci and Ivan Ljubicic.
A Legacy Rooted in Decades of Broadcasting
Pero began her tenure at Tele+ from its founding in 1991. She was hired by pioneering journalist Rino Tommasi, whose heavy broadcasting legacy she eventually inherited. Over more than 20 years in the commentary booth, she formed a formidable partnership with Paolo Bertolucci, creating a legendary pairing that guided Italian audiences through generations of tennis history.
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Sky Sport director Federico Ferri paid tribute to her dedication, noting that she refused to skip a single broadcast even as she managed her illness. “In these desperate days, the only consolation is remembering Elena right there, at her place, with a cuffia and a microphone, on the most legendary field, to do her work, in which she was the best,” Ferri stated.
Remembering the Voice of Italian Tennis
Colleagues and figures across the tennis world shared their grief following the announcement on September 24, 2026. Ivan Ljubicic shared his sorrow on social media, writing that tennis will never be the same without her. Ferri placed Pero alongside historical broadcasting greats such as Nicolò Carosio, Nando Martellini, Paolo Rosi, Alfredo Pigna, and Adriano De Zan, who defined eras of Italian sports history.
Did you know? Elena Pero was honored with the prestigious Coni-Ussi journalism award in 2025 for her contributions to sports reporting and her unmatched coverage of tennis.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Elena Pero’s final broadcast?
Her final telecast aired on July 12, 2026, covering Jannik Sinner’s second Wimbledon title alongside Paolo Bertolucci and Ivan Ljubicic.
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How long did Elena Pero work in broadcasting?
She worked in sports television since the founding of Tele+ in 1991, contributing over three decades of coverage to Italian viewers.
What awards did Elena Pero receive?
She won the prestigious Coni-Ussi journalism award in 2025.
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