Tennis World Mourns Art Seitz: A Legend Behind the Lens Passes Away
Arthur “Art” Seitz, a legendary tennis photographer, passed away at 82, leaving a rich legacy of sports history captured.
Tennis World Mourns Art Seitz: A Legend Behind the Lens Passes Away
Arthur “Art” Seitz, a legendary figure in the world of tennis photography, passed away on August 23 at the age of 82. For over 50 years, Seitz was at the forefront of documenting this beloved sport, capturing both exhilarating on-court action and the intimate moments that unfold behind the scenes. As the WTA reports, he was a well-known presence at tournaments around the globe and adept at portraying the essence of the “tennis family.”
Seitz’s extensive portfolio features iconic shots of tennis greats like Chris Evert and Billie Jean King. He was a pioneer, being the first staff photographer for both World Tennis Magazine and the Virginia Slims Circuit. His striking images have graced the pages of top publications, including Time, People, Vogue, Vanity Fair, Sports Illustrated, LIFE, and Paris Match. His work not only highlights tennis but also captures vibrant moments from events such as the Super Bowl and the Kentucky Derby.
Capturing the Heart of Tennis
Seitz began his illustrious photography career at the U.S. Open in 1968, the very year it became officially known as “The Open,” following an assignment from a local newspaper. From then on, he became synonymous with the event, consistently showcasing its thrills and challenges through his lens. His expansive career included covering all 50 U.S. Opens since 1968, a milestone recognized by the USTA in 2018.
As noted by Adam Stoltman, a former photography editor, Seitz had a unique talent for connecting with players, which allowed him to capture candid and heartfelt moments that few could achieve. This connection extended beyond the court; he photographed a variety of personalities within the tennis community, from journalists to tour staff. In 2013, he was the sole photographer invited to the WTA’s 40 Love celebrations in London, a testament to his impact on the sport.
A Lifetime of Passion and Generosity
Art Seitz’s contributions went beyond just taking pictures. He was a generous soul, often sharing his images to support player reunions and charitable causes. Even in his later years, when health issues emerged, he continued to share his wealth of photography with colleagues and friends, a true mark of his dedication to the sport and its community.
Aside from his photographic achievements, Seitz enjoyed a vibrant life. He played tennis on the Florida junior circuit and at the University of Florida before serving as a captain in the U.S. Air Force in Europe. This rich tapestry of experiences undoubtedly shaped his perspective as a photographer.
In reflecting on today’s tennis, Seitz has pointed out the remarkable technical skills present in contemporary players, while also longing for the unique personalities that defined players like Vitas Gerulaitis, Ilie Nastase, and Jimmy Connors. His photographic style was intuitive, focusing on the interplay of light and the patterns of human behavior, which gave his photos a unique depth and narrative quality.
Art Seitz leaves behind a legacy that transcends photography; he is survived by his sister, Pauline “Polly,” and his brother, Russell. The world of tennis has lost a beloved chronicler of its history, and as the WTA poignantly stated, his work truly captured the soul of the sport. He will be remembered not just for the moments he captured, but for the stories he told through his lens.