Karol Stopa, Legendary Polish Tennis Commentator, Dies at 78

Karol Stopa, a beloved figure in Polish sports journalism and a distinctive voice in tennis commentary, has passed away at the age of 78. His death was announced by fellow journalist Lech Sidor, a long-time colleague from Eurosport.

Sidor shared a heartfelt tribute on platform X, lamenting the loss of his "greatest FRIEND." He recalled Stopa's unique "hoarse voice" and his engaging "anecdotes" that enriched tennis broadcasts. "No more duets, no one will write that he's old and knows nothing about tennis anymore," Sidor wrote, adding, "Karol Stopa will never announce another match! Goodbye, Karolka!"

Stopa was a fixture on Eurosport for over 25 years, providing commentary for major tennis events, including all Grand Slam tournaments. He was still actively commentating on the French Open just a month prior to his passing. He celebrated his 78th birthday in March.

“

There will be no more duets, no one will write that he is old and knows nothing about tennis, that he tells his anecdotes, my greatest FRIEND has left this world this morning, we will never hear his famous hoarse voice again.

Born in Warsaw in 1948, Stopa had a personal connection to the sport, having played tennis in his youth for SKS Warszawianka. He also organized amateur tournaments and even won the first edition of the Warsaw Amateur Grand Prix in 1977. He further participated in international tennis events for journalists, earning medals.

His journalism career began at "Kurier Polski" in 1971 and included a stint at "Przegląd Sportowy." He moved into television sports broadcasting in 1989 at TVP, working as a reporter, editor, and commentator. He later led the sports department at TVN from 1997 to 1998 before joining Eurosport, where he became one of Poland's most recognizable sports commentators.

“

Karol Stopa, will never announce another match! Goodbye Karolka!