A life for the tennis: Farewell to Bernd Haberleitner
A life for the tennis: Farewell to Bernd Haberleitner
On November 26th, Bernd Haberleitner, a well-known tournament organizer and manager of the Austrian tennis star Andreas Haider-Maurer, died at the age of 55. The loss has hit the domestic tennis community deeply and leaves a gap that will be difficult to fill. Haberleitner died in his birthplace of Krems on the Danube after the incurable disease was found in the spring.
Haberleitner was not only crucial in tennis, but also a loving father and friend. He himself played tennis and reached the ATP ranking place 1071 in 1992. His commitment to sport contradicts the often commercial orientation in tennis; He campaigned for sports and his athletes in an authentic way. Many described him as one of the friendliest characters in Tennis, Austria.
an outstanding career and tragic diagnosis
As a manager, Haberleitner led Haider-Maurer to the top 50 in the world rankings and accompanied him for over 16 years through ups and downs of his career. In an emotional homage to his mentor and friend, who accompanied him to his first tournaments in his youth, Haider-Maurer said: "Without him, it would not have worked as it went. I am infinitely grateful to him." This gratitude is reflected in the moving words that Haider-Maurer addressed to him in a social network, where he addressed the brutal injustice of life.
Bernd Haberleitner was not only a key person in the life of Haider-Maurer, but also an important support for many other players and people in the world of tennis. Together with Alexander Wendt, he founded the first Austrian tennis tournament online platform www.tennisturnier.at , the great influence in the way in which tournaments are organized and perceived.
In addition to his tennis achievements, he also worked as a managing director in various activities, which underlines his commitment and versatility. His last position was as Head of Recruiting & Personnel Development at the building cleaning company Simacek. There and beyond, he was always a sponsor of the Austrian tennis association and continued to support the development of young talents in tennis.memories of a "super type"
ÖTV sports director Jürgen Melzer, a former competitor on the pitch, remembered the positive properties of Haberleitner: "He always had a smile on his face, was always positive-my condolences to his wife, family and friends." These words are representative of the general perception of Haberleitner than someone who lived life with a positive approach. A little irony surrounds his illness because he took part in the research for this devastating illness over ten years ago in the as Ice Bucket Challenge, without knowing that the disease would meet him.
Bernd Haberleitner not only leaves his wife toja, but also a lasting impression in the Austrian tennis landscape. His commitment and friendly nature are remembered by all those who knew him, especially in this difficult time. His work will continue to be inspiration for the coming generations of tennis players and managers.