Tribute

Ivan Kley — A life dedicated to tennis

Following Rio Open’s tradition of honoring Brazilian tennis icons, this year the tournament pays tribute to Ivan Kley, one of the great names of the sport in Brazil, whose journey on and off the court has inspired generations. Born on June 29, 1958, in Novo Hamburgo, Rio Grande do Sul, Kley took to the courts at the age of eight, showing an intense passion for the racket from an early age.

His professional career began at 17, in 1975, and spanned another 15 years of total dedication to competition. Throughout his time on the courts, Kley achieved important milestones: he played the main Grand Slam tournaments, including Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and the US Open, and reached the ATP Top 100, peaking at 81st in singles in December 1986. In doubles, he stood out even more, reaching 56th in the world in 1985. and winning a memorable title at the Madrid ATP that same year alongside Givaldo Barbosa.

He represented Brazil in three Davis Cup ties, putting our country’s name among the protagonists of the international scene. Ivan was also a standout in national tournaments, becoming a three-time Brazilian champion in the adult category and achieving a rare feat in Brazilian tennis by winning singles, doubles, and mixed doubles titles on the same day at national competitions.

After retiring in 1990, Ivan Kley remained passionately and generously devoted to tennis. He worked as a coach, technical coordinator, and director of ADK Tennis in Itajaí, Santa Catarina, where he devoted his final years to developing young athletes, always with a keen eye on the technical and personal growth of players.

On April 3, 2025, at the age of 66, Ivan passed away in Itajaí, Santa Catarina, leaving a void in the heart of the sport and in the lives of everyone who knew him.