Introduction
Mary Carillo is a former professional tennis player and current sports broadcaster and analyst. She was born on March 15, 1957 in Queens, New York and is now 65 years old. 👵 Carillo had a modestly successful tennis career, winning the 1977 French Open mixed doubles title with partner John McEnroe. 🏆 However, she is better known for her work as a tennis analyst and broadcaster with networks like NBC, CBS, ESPN, and HBO. Let’s take a closer look at Mary Carillo’s life and career.
Early Life and Tennis Career
Mary Carillo grew up in Queens, New York and was introduced to tennis by her father, a tennis instructor. 🎾 She played on the girls’ tennis team at Douglas MacArthur High School. Carillo went on to attend Princeton University from 1975-1977, where she was a member of the women’s tennis team. 🎓
After college, Carillo played tennis professionally from 1977-1980. Her biggest title win came at the 1977 French Open, where she and John McEnroe won the mixed doubles event. 🏆 She reached as high as #33 in the world in singles and #25 in doubles. However, debilitating back injuries forced Carillo to retire from professional tennis in 1980 at just age 22. 🤕
Broadcasting Career
After tennis, Carillo moved into sports broadcasting. 📺 She worked for USA Network in the 1980s, providing commentary at the US Open and other tennis events. Carillo joined NBC Sports in 1988, becoming the first female tennis analyst on US television. 👩 She has worked every Summer Olympics since 1996 for NBC.
Carillo has also done tennis commentary for CBS, ESPN, HBO, and other major networks over her long broadcasting career. She is known for her witty, candid style and deep knowledge of the sport. 🎙️ Carillo has earned numerous Sports Emmy Awards for her work.
Some of the biggest matches Carillo has covered include:
- 1992 Davis Cup final with John McEnroe 🎾
- 1996 Olympic Atlanta Gold Medal tennis match between Agassi and Sergi Bruguera 🥇
- Several Wimbledon and US Open finals 🎾
Carillo also does commentary and interviews beyond just tennis. She has covered other sports like skiing, figure skating, and golf, and has interviewed famous celebrities and public figures like Barack Obama, Billie Jean King, and Aaron Rodgers.
Net Worth and Earnings 💰
According to various reports, Mary Carillo has a net worth of approximately $10 million as of 2023. Tennis was not hugely lucrative during her playing career in the 1970s. Her wealth has come mostly from her broadcasting work over the past 30+ years.
Carillo has earned a good salary through her contracts and appearances with NBC, CBS, ESPN, and other major networks. Brand endorsement deals with companies like Porsche have also contributed to her income. At her peak, some estimates had Carillo earning over $1 million per year from broadcasting alone.
While comfortable, Carillo’s net worth does not rival other top sports broadcasters like Jim Nantz ($25 million) or Joe Buck ($15 million). But she has done well financially while becoming one of the most recognizable and respected tennis analysts on television.
Personal Life
Carillo has been married to TV producer Bill Bowen since 1988. The couple does not have any children together. 👰♀️👰
Carillo underwent spinal fusion surgery in 1993 to help repair back injuries from her tennis career. She has openly discussed her battles with depression in recent years as well.
Outside of broadcasting, Carillo enjoys activities like hiking, skiing, and golf. 🥾⛷️🏌️♀️ She is an avid New York sports fan who roots for the Mets, Jets, and Knicks. Carillo also rescues dogs and works with animal welfare organizations. 🐶
Carillo authored a memoir in 2005 titled Tennis My Way. She has also co-written non-fiction books about sports rivalries like Yankees vs. Red Sox.
FAQ
How many major titles did Mary Carillo win as a tennis player?
Carillo won one Grand Slam title, the 1977 French Open mixed doubles with John McEnroe. This was her only major title.
What TV networks has Mary Carillo worked for?
She has worked for NBC, CBS, ESPN, HBO, USA Network, and other major broadcasters covering tennis, Olympics, and other sports.
Is Mary Carillo still announcing?
Yes, at age 65, Carillo remains active as a sports broadcaster. She continues to work Grand Slam events and Olympics for NBC.
Where did Mary Carillo go to college?
Carillo attended Princeton University, where she played on the women’s tennis team. She graduated in 1977.
Is Mary Carillo married?
Yes, she has been married to TV producer Bill Bowen since 1988. The couple resides in New York.
Conclusion
In summary, Mary Carillo has achieved success and fame as a sports broadcaster after her modest professional tennis career. Her wit and knowledge have made Carillo one of the most popular and recognizable analysts in the sport, especially at major events like Wimbledon. She continues to cover tennis and other sports at age 65 while enjoying life away from the court as well. Carillo’s long broadcasting career has given her an estimated net worth of $10 million. While no longer playing, she remains highly influential in the tennis world through her commentary and insights.
