Published in 2009 in the USA, this book must surely be the longest overdue biography in tennis. The bubbly little Ecuadorian took to tennis at an early age but circumstances forced him into the professional ranks in the late 1940s so that he only played singles at Wimbledon in 1946 and 1947. He returned to Wimbledon in 1968 playing doubles with Alex Olmedo. By sheer force of personality, he entertained many audiences with his double-handed play, then became pro at the Beverly Hills Tennis Club coaching the stars. He also made a name in the 1970s as coach to Jimmy Connors, and we saw him a few years ago in ecstatic form when Ecudaor trounced GB at Wimbledon in the Davis Cup. This year he graced us with his presence during Wimbledon 2009 making the trek in a wheel-chair to Centre Court on an almost daily basis to watch the top men.

I spent some time with him chatting as he signed books, saying: "You make an old man very happy". Born in 1921, and thus now 88, his eyes still twinkled mischievously! 

In small 8vo format hardboards and dustwrapper with 210 pages, I can offer copies at £20 UK post free or plus £5 worldwide airmail.