Obituary: Per Renstrom
The International Tennis Federation is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Per Renstrom, who was a leading figure and much-respected authority in the world of orthopaedics, sports medicine and tennis medicine.
Per, who was born in Sweden in 1942, has been a mentor to many and during a storied career has made a significant and lasting impact upon the lives of innumerable patients and players. He was also an educator who published practice-enhancing research.
Per was one of the original members and founders of the Society for Tennis Medicine & Science, serving as its first Vice President and then enjoying an extended term of President from 2002-2007.
He also served on the ATP Medical Services Committee from 1998 until his passing and was a member of the ITF Sport Science & Medicine Commission from 1998 to 2019.
“I had the privilege of working with Per for many years in my role as Chair of the ITF Sport Science & Medicine Commission,” said ITF Vice President Dr Brian Hainline.
“It always felt a bit incongruous to serve as Chair when one of the greatest minds – and hearts – in sports medicine was a member-at-large.
“Yet Per never carried himself that way. He never assumed his voice should dominate. Instead, he met with me often, one-on-one, asking thoughtful questions and offering quiet guidance – as a mentor, a colleague and friend.
“Two memories stay with me. The first is breakfast at the Petersham Hotel – eggs and bacon, rolls and butter, juice and what felt like infinite laughter. Per delighted in the moment, perhaps amused by the indulgence, but more so because he was, at his core, a joyful human being.
“The second is our many conversations about American politics. Per was genuinely puzzled that so many of his American orthopaedic colleagues aligned with right-wing parties. He was, at heart, a socialist and a humanist.
“He believed deeply that caring for others required systems – and a government – committed to the good of all. He expressed these views with clarity, conviction and respect. I will miss Per greatly.”
The ITF extends its heartfelt condolences to Per’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time.