Bradley Gilbert (b.1961) is an American former professional tennis player, coach, and commentator known for his strategic approach. He reached a career-high singles ranking of world No. 4 in 1990 and won 20 singles titles. After retiring, he became a sought-after coach, guiding Andre Agassi, Andy Roddick, and Andy Murray.
Born in Oakland, California, Gilbert started playing tennis at four. He played for Foothill College before transferring to Pepperdine University, where he became an All-American and reached the 1982 NCAA Championship final. Turning professional in 1982, he won his first singles title in Taipei that year. His best season was 1989, winning five singles titles, including Cincinnati, defeating multiple future Hall of Famers.
Gilbert transitioned to coaching after retiring in 1995. Under his guidance, Agassi won six Grand Slam titles, and Roddick claimed the 2003 U.S. Open. He later coached Murray and Kei Nishikori.
He is also an author, known for Winning Ugly: Mental Warfare in Tennis—Lessons from a Master (1993,) offering tactical insights, and I’ve Got Your Back (2004,) exploring coaching strategies and player development.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Brad Gilbert
Sitting on the sidelines it’s fairly easy to spot a match and see what’s happening; who’s doing what to whom.
—Brad Gilbert
Don’t be afraid to swing at the ball but don’t try to impress the other player.
—Brad Gilbert
I’ll lose if I go strength to strength. I’m good, however, at working my strengths against my opponents weaknesses.
—Brad Gilbert
Most of the time there is a way to win. You just have to figure out what it is.
—Brad Gilbert
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