Beloved U.S. Sports Writer Howard Fendrich Dead at 55

Howard Fendrich, a beloved longtime sports journalist for the Associated Press, has passed away. He was 55.

The longtime U.S. sports writer, who was based out of Washington, D.C., was perhaps best known for his tennis coverage. He covered the Grand Slams and other major tournaments and developed good relationships with the sport's top stars, including legendary Roger Federer.

Federer called the U.S. sports journalist "one of those constant and reassuring presences in the tennis world for many years."

"He started covering tennis in 2002, right around the time I was starting to have my breakthrough in the sport, and over time he truly became part of the fabric of tennis," Federer said, per the AP. "Tennis lost a wonderful journalist and a great person."

Fendrich was diagnosed with cancer after returning from the Winter Olympics in February. His last byline came in late February. It was his 11th Olympic Games.

AP Executive Editor and Senior Vice President Julie Pace released a statement on his passing.

"Howard was a gifted journalist who brought such skill, expertise and enthusiasm to his work," Pace said. "His stories were a joy to read, combining lively writing with insightful reporting. He was also a generous and beloved colleague whose warmth and passion touched so many across the AP."

Fendrich is survived by by his wife; his mother, Renée; his brother, Alex; and two sons, Stefano and Jordan.

Tributes for the U.S. sports journalist are pouring in

"This is such terrible news. What a decent guy and such a talented writer," Richard Deitsch wrote.

"This is so heartbreaking. Howard and his wit were part of what made the Nationals Park press box such a fun place to endure the drudgeries of long Nats baseball seasons. Could deliver expletives with a smile like no one else I know. Good person," Chelsea Janes wrote.

"So unbelievably sad. Loved seeing Howard at different events throughout the years. His coverage and unique personality will definitely be missed. RIP," Pam Chvotkin wrote.

"Such a professional! We loved chatting about Cuban food.🙏🏾🙏🏾," Chick Hernandez added.

"An incredible person. An incredible journalist. An incredible, unparalleled friend. Rest in peace, Howard Fendrich," Jesse Dougherty shared.

Our thoughts are with his friends and family members during this difficult time.

May he rest in peace.

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This story was originally published May 21, 2026 at 2:12 PM.