Tennis Canada and the broader sports community are mourning the loss of Mario Brisebois, a revered journalist and devoted advocate for tennis, who passed away following a courageous battle with cancer.
Brisebois’ journey in sports journalism began in the early 1980s, when he first made his mark as a golf contributor for the Journal de Montréal. His early days included caddying for Jocelyne Bourassa, the 1973 Canadian Open champion.
It wasn't long before Brisebois transitioned to covering tennis, becoming Quebec’s first full-time tennis columnist. This role ignited a lifelong passion and commitment to the sport.
Throughout his career, Brisebois chronicled the pivotal moments in Canadian tennis history. Yet, his true legacy lies in highlighting the unsung heroes-volunteers, coaches, event organizers, and chaperones-who tirelessly work behind the scenes. His unique “friendly conversation” interview style put subjects at ease, often revealing the most compelling stories in Canadian tennis.
For nearly four decades, Brisebois championed tennis, covering everything from junior tournaments to the prestigious National Bank Open presented by Rogers. His insightful columns in the Journal de Montréal and contributions to Tennis Canada’s platforms significantly boosted the sport’s visibility across the nation.
In recognition of his impactful work, Brisebois received Tennis Canada’s Distinguished Service Award in 2006, an honor rarely bestowed upon media members. His excellence in journalism also earned him a place in the International Tennis Writers Association, a testament to his standing among the world’s top tennis writers.
Brisebois was cherished for his ability to listen and his comforting presence. His passing leaves a profound void, yet his written legacy and the memories he created will endure.
He will be remembered as a pivotal figure who shaped the public perception of tennis, and as a pioneer who played a crucial role in elevating the sport in Quebec and Canada. The tennis community extends its heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Brisebois for his invaluable contributions.