Former Australian Open doubles semi-finalist Laurie Warder has paid tribute to Craig A. Miller after his compatriot lost a battle with throat cancer last weekend. A former World No.64 in doubles in 1984, Miller was 58.

A junior boys’ singles champion at the 1980 Australian Open, where he defeated Wally Masur in the final, Miller teamed with Warder to reach the semi-finals in main draw doubles two years later. The Aussie duo lost to eventual champions Paul Annacone and Christo Van Rensburg at Kooyong.

“That was our highlight playing together,” Warder said. “We played a lot of junior tennis together, but he ended up way too good for me.

“He was a great guy… He was in Sydney and moved to Melbourne. We played a lot of golf together. Golf and family brought him through [his cancer treatment]. He was a member down at the National [Golf Club] and every time he was feeling better he’d go and play.”

Miller’s wife Trish and family shared news of his passing in a statement. “It is with great sadness that we advise that Craig passed away… He was surrounded with love from family and died peacefully. He endured a massive, courageous fight and is now playing golf in a happier place, free from pain and torment,” the statement read.