Howard Fendrich, a respected sports writer for The Associated Press, has passed away at the age of 55. Known for his detailed and passionate reporting, Fendrich brought readers into the heart of sports moments, covering everything from Grand Slam tennis finals to incredible Olympic performances.
Fendrich died on Thursday at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore after a short battle with cancer, which he was diagnosed with in February. His wife, Rosanna Maietta, shared the news of his passing. Fendrich had recently returned from Milan, where he covered his 11th Olympic Games.
Roger Federer, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, expressed his condolences, stating that Fendrich was a constant and reassuring presence in the tennis community for many years. Federer noted that their paths crossed more than 100 times over the decades, highlighting Fendrich’s significant role in sports journalism.
Fendrich is survived by his wife, his mother Renée, his brother Alex, and his two sons, Stefano and Jordan, both of whom are following in their father’s footsteps by pursuing careers in sports journalism.
Julie Pace, the Executive Editor and Senior Vice President of AP, praised Fendrich as a gifted journalist who combined lively writing with insightful reporting. His colleagues remember him not only for his talent but also for his warmth and generosity.
A Haverford College graduate, Fendrich started his career at AP as an unpaid intern in Rome. His passion for sports journalism quickly became evident as he transitioned from soccer to tennis, covering some 70 Grand Slam tournaments and chronicling the careers of legends like Serena and Venus Williams, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic.
One of Fendrich’s notable achievements was winning two Grimsley Awards for his overall contributions as an AP sports writer. His writing was celebrated for its depth and emotional resonance, capturing moments like Andre Agassi’s last match at the 2006 U.S. Open, where he poignantly described Agassi’s vulnerability after the game.
Fendrich had an unerring instinct for news and was known for his dogged determination. During the 2011 NFL labor lockout, he spent days outside negotiating rooms, waiting for updates. His commitment to getting the story made him a reliable source in sports journalism.
His colleagues have shared fond memories of Fendrich’s sharp sense of humor and his knack for making even long days enjoyable with his friendly demeanor. Chris Lehourites, an editor at AP, described him as both a perfectionist in his work and a cherished friend, always ready to collaborate and share a laugh.
Howard Fendrich’s legacy in sports journalism will be remembered not only for his incredible writing and reporting but also for the positive impact he had on those around him. He was a true professional who inspired many in the field, and his voice will be missed.
For more information, visit AP Sports.
