Forrest “Woody” Hunt IV was a distinguished American tennis player, celebrated for his remarkable talent and unwavering dedication to the sport. Born on December 3, 1966, in Torrance, California, Hunt honed his skills under the mentorship of coach Dennis Rizza. He emerged as a formidable junior player, securing the runner-up position at the 1985 USTA Boys’ 18 National Championships, which led to a national ranking of fifth in his age group that year.
Hunt’s collegiate career at the University of California, Berkeley, was marked by excellence. As a three-time All-American, he played a pivotal role in elevating the university’s tennis program. Transitioning to the professional circuit, Hunt achieved a career-high singles ranking of No. 434 globally. Notably, he recorded significant victories over esteemed players such as Peter Fleming at the 1987 Transamerica Open and Éric Winogradsky at the 1989 Cincinnati Open. In 1991, his expertise was recognized with a selection as a practice partner for the United States Davis Cup team during their tie against Spain in Newport, Rhode Island.
Tragically, in 1996, Hunt’s ascending career was abruptly halted by a severe car accident that resulted in paralysis of his right arm. Despite this life-altering event, his passion for tennis remained undiminished. He continued to contribute to the sport, inspiring many with his resilience and commitment. However, Hunt also faced personal challenges, including a battle with bipolar disorder. On December 21, 2002, he passed away by suicide at the age of 36.
To honor his legacy, the USTA established the annual “Woody Hunt South Bay Junior Tournament,” held at the Jack Kramer Club in Rolling Hills Estates, California. This tournament serves as a testament to Hunt’s enduring impact on the tennis community, inspiring young athletes to pursue excellence with the same fervor he exemplified throughout his life.