The 7 Best Tennis Players of All Time (Male & Female)

Tennis is a sport that has been around for centuries, and it has produced some incredible athletes.

But who will go down as the greatest ever?

In this article, we will take a look at the best tennis players of all time, based on their accomplishments on the court and their impact on the sport.

7 Best Male Tennis Players of All Time

7. Andre Agassi

Andre Agassi is undeniably one of the greatest tennis players of all time. Born on April 29, 1970, in Las Vegas, Nevada, Agassi’s career spanned over two decades, leaving a huge mark on the sport. Known for his powerful groundstrokes, remarkable agility, and charismatic personality, Agassi captivated fans worldwide.

Agassi’s list of accomplishments is nothing short of extraordinary. He won eight Grand Slam singles titles, including four Australian Open championships, two at the US Open, and one each at Wimbledon and the French Open.

Beyond the majors, Agassi’s won an Olympic gold medal in men’s singles at the 1996 Atlanta Games. He also helped the United States win the Davis Cup in 1990, further cementing his status as a team player.

Off the court, Agassi has made significant contributions to education. His Andre Agassi Foundation for Education has made a significant impact in improving educational opportunities for underprivileged children.

Andre Agassi’s extraordinary talent, unmatched resilience, and commitment to social causes make him a true legend in the world of tennis, leaving a permanent imprint for future generations.

6. Bjorn Borg

Born on June 6, 1956, in Sodertalje, Sweden, Borg became a tennis prodigy at a young age, showcasing his exceptional skills and mental fortitude.

Borg’s trademark was his stoic demeanor on the court, earning him the nickname “Ice Borg.” His calm and composed presence contradicted his fierce competitive spirit and unparalleled athleticism. He dominated the tennis scene, particularly on the clay courts of Roland Garros, where he won six French Open titles consecutively from 1974 to 1981.

Beyond his clay court supremacy, Borg’s remarkable achievements included five consecutive Wimbledon titles from 1976 to 1980. His powerful baseline game, remarkable footwork, and exceptional two-handed backhand made him a force to be reckoned with on any surface.

The rivalry between Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe is legendary, showing the clash of contrasting styles and personalities. Their epic battles, including the classic 1980 Wimbledon final, captivated the tennis world and left a lasting mark on the sport.

Borg’s abrupt retirement from tennis at the age of 26 shocked the world, leaving fans and pundits speculating about what might have been. Nevertheless, his influence on the game is still felt today, as he inspired a generation of players and set new standards for excellence.

5. Pete Sampras

Pete Sampras is widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players to have graced the sport. Born on August 12, 1971, Sampras was known for his powerful serve and relentless competitive spirit.

Sampras’ career was marked by remarkable consistency and dominance. He held the world No. 1 ranking for a record-breaking 286 weeks, a testament to his exceptional skill and mental strength. Known for his smooth and elegant playing style, Sampras possessed a versatile game that allowed him to excel on all court surfaces.

At the Grand Slam level, Sampras won 14 titles, a record at the time of his retirement. His seven Wimbledon championships are particularly noteworthy, highlighting his love for grass courts. Additionally, he won five US Open titles and two Australian Open championships.

Sampras’ duels with his rivals, such as Andre Agassi and Goran Ivanisevic, produced thrilling matches that captivated tennis enthusiasts. His rivalry with Agassi, both on and off the court, added an extra layer of intrigue to their encounters, with each player pushing the other to greater heights.

Sampras’ retirement in 2002 marked the end of an era in men’s tennis. His ability to maintain an exceptional level of play for an extended period, coupled with his humble attitude and unwavering focus, earned him the respect of many fans and fellow athletes.

4. Rod Laver

Rod Laver, often referred to as “Rocket Rod,” is widely recognized as one of the greatest tennis players of all time. Born on August 9, 1938, in Rockhampton, Australia, Laver left an indelible mark on the sport with his exceptional talent and remarkable achievements.

Laver won 11 Grand Slam championships during his career, including the calendar-year Grand Slam in 1962 and 1969. Not only that, but he won the most singles titles of any tennis player (198). His ability to adapt to different surfaces, combined with his powerful left-handed game and incredible court coverage, made him virtually unbeatable.

Laver’s influence on tennis extends beyond his playing days. His contributions to the game have been recognized through various honors, including induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

3. Roger Federer

Roger Federer, the Swiss maestro, has etched his name in tennis history as one of the greatest players to have ever graced the sport. Born on August 8, 1981, in Basel, Switzerland, Federer’s elegant playing style and extraordinary achievements have captivated fans worldwide.

Federer’s unrivaled versatility and effortless grace on the court have earned him countless achievements. Federer has amassed an astonishing 20 major championships with 8 of those being Wimbledon. However, his ability to adapt to different surfaces, combined with his exceptional shot-making and impeccable footwork, has made him a formidable opponent in every tournament he enters.

Beyond his Grand Slam success, Federer’s consistency at the top of the rankings is unparalleled. He held the world No. 1 ranking for 310 weeks, demonstrating his sustained brilliance and longevity in the sport.

Federer’s rivalry with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic has produced some of the most memorable matches in tennis history. These battles of skill, resilience, and determination have elevated the sport to new heights, captivating audiences worldwide and cementing Federer’s status as an icon of the game.

Off the court, Federer is equally revered for his sportsmanship, philanthropy, and ambassadorial role. His Roger Federer Foundation has made a significant impact in providing education and healthcare opportunities to children in need, showcasing his commitment to improving lives beyond the tennis court.

2. Rafael Nadal

Born on June 3, 1986, in Manacor, Spain, Nadal is one of the greatest tennis players of all time and has inspired millions of athletes around the world.

Nadal’s dominance on clay courts is unmatched. His record-breaking 14 French Open titles is the most of any player in any major tournament. With his ferocious topspin, blistering forehand, and relentless physicality, he has proven to be virtually unbeatable on the red dirt, earning him a place in tennis history as the greatest clay court player of all time.

However, Nadal’s success is not limited to clay. He has achieved remarkable success on all surfaces, amassing a total of 22 Grand Slam singles titles, with this number likely to increase in the future. Plus, he is the only one out of the Big 3 to win a gold medal in the singles at the Olympics.

Off the court, Nadal’s humility, sportsmanship, and charitable endeavors have earned him admiration and respect. His foundation, the Rafa Nadal Foundation, focuses on providing education and opportunities for disadvantaged children, showcasing his commitment to making a positive impact on society.

1. Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic is my pick for the best male tennis player in history. Born on May 22, 1987, in Belgrade, Djokovic’s relentless drive, exceptional skill set, and unwavering determination has propelled him to the top of the sport.

Djokovic has won a total of 23 Grand Slam singles titles, which is the most of any male tennis player in history. He has also achieved many other remarkable feats such as holding all four Grand Slam titles concurrently in 2015-2016, completing the career Grand Slam, and being world No.1 for a record number of weeks (389).

His fierce rivalry with Federer and Nadal has captivated audiences worldwide, with each player pushing the boundaries of the sport in their epic battles. However, Djokovic has a winning record over both his rivals with a 30-29 against Nadal and a 27-23 against Federer.

Through his foundation, the Novak Djokovic Foundation, he has invested in education and early childhood development programs, striving to create a better future for children in need.

Honorable Mentions

• Ivan Lendl: Ivan Lendl, the Czech tennis legend, was known for his powerful game and unwavering determination. Born on March 7, 1960, Lendl’s impressive career included eight Grand Slam titles and 270 weeks at the world No. 1 ranking.

• John McEnroe: John McEnroe, the fiery American tennis star, made a significant impact on the sport with his exceptional skill and passionate demeanor. Born on February 16, 1959, McEnroe’s career was highlighted by seven Grand Slam singles titles, including four US Open championships and three Wimbledon titles. His intense rivalries and memorable on-court confrontations have become part of tennis culture.

• Jimmy Connors: Born on September 2, 1952, Jimmy Connors won an impressive collection of eight Grand Slam singles titles, including five US Open championships. He has also won the most career titles in history with 109.

7 Best Female Tennis Players of All Time

7. Monica Seles

Born on December 2, 1973, in Yugoslavia, Monica Seles burst onto the tennis scene at a young age, captivating audiences with her unique playing style and relentless competitive spirit.

Seles’ powerful two-handed shots, particularly her ferocious double-handed forehand, revolutionized women’s tennis. Her aggressive baseline game and remarkable consistency allowed her to dominate her opponents. In the early 1990s, she enjoyed a period of unparalleled success, capturing numerous Grand Slam titles and reaching the world No. 1 ranking.

At the age of 16, Seles won her first Grand Slam title at the French Open in 1990. She went on to win a total of nine major championships, including four Australian Open titles, three French Open titles, and two US Open titles.

Tragically, Seles’ career was interrupted when she was the victim of an on-court attack in 1993. Despite this setback, she displayed immense resilience and courage, making a successful comeback and reaching the top of the sport once again.

Seles’ contributions to the sport extend off the court as well. Her advocacy for mental health and her openness about her own struggles have helped raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental well-being in the world of sports.

6. Billie Jean King

Born on November 22, 1943, in Long Beach, California, Billie Jean King’s contributions to the sport and society at are immeasurable.

King’s career is highlighted by an astonishing 12 Grand Slam titles, a career Grand Slam. Her aggressive playing style, characterized by her powerful serve and net play, made her a force to be reckoned with on the court.

Beyond her impressive achievements, King’s impact on gender equality in tennis is unmatched. She played a pivotal role in the fight for equal prize money, leading the formation of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) and advocating for equal opportunities for female athletes. The famous “Battle of the Sexes” match in 1973, where King defeated Bobby Riggs, became a defining moment in the struggle for gender equality in sports.

King’s activism extended beyond tennis. Her fight for social justice and LGBTQ+ rights has made her an icon for equality and inclusion. She continues to be a prominent voice for these causes, using her platform to inspire change and create a more equitable society.

In recognition of her contributions, King has been honored with numerous awards, including induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Her impact on the sport and her commitment to social progress has left an unforgettable mark.

5. Chris Evert

Chris Evert has etched her name in sports history with her remarkable career and unwavering grace on and off the court. Born on December 21, 1954, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Evert’s incredible achievements and exceptional playing style have solidified her place among the greatest tennis players of all time.

Evert’s playing style was characterized by her consistency, precision, and remarkable mental strength. Nicknamed the “Ice Maiden” for her calm and composed demeanor, she possessed an exceptional ability to absorb pressure and deliver consistent, accurate shots from the baseline.

Her success at Grand Slam tournaments is truly remarkable. Evert amassed an impressive total of 18 major singles titles, including a record seven French Open championships and six US Open titles. Her prowess on clay courts was particularly noteworthy, showcasing her exceptional footwork and defensive skills.

Evert’s rivalry with Martina Navratilova captivated fans and elevated the sport to new heights. Their battles on the court, marked by contrasting styles of play and a fierce competitive spirit, produced some of the most memorable matches in tennis history.

Post-retirement, Evert has continued to contribute to the sport as a television commentator and tennis analyst. Her insights and expertise have provided invaluable commentary to tennis enthusiasts, further solidifying her status as a trusted voice in the tennis community.

4. Martina Navratilova

Born on October 18, 1956, in Prague, Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic), Martina Navratilova’s exceptional talent, versatility, and spirit have forever changed the game of tennis.

Navratilova’s career is highlighted by an astonishing 18 Grand Slam singles titles, including a record nine Wimbledon championships. Her attacking style of play, characterized by her powerful serve-and-volley game, set her apart from her peers and allowed her to dominate opponents on all surfaces.

Beyond her remarkable success as a singles player, Navratilova achieved remarkable success in doubles as well. She secured an incredible 31 Grand Slam doubles titles and 10 mixed doubles titles, further showcasing her versatility and unparalleled skills on the court.

Off the court, Navratilova’s advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and her openness about her own identity has made her an inspiration for countless individuals around the world. Her courage and willingness to use her platform to fight for equality have had a lasting impact far beyond the tennis court.

Navratilova’s influence extends to her post-playing career as a coach, commentator, and writer. Her insightful analysis and articulate commentary have enhanced the understanding and appreciation of the game for fans and aspiring players alike.

3. Margaret Court

Margaret Court, a tennis legend from Australia, has left an indelible mark on the sport with her exceptional talent and extraordinary achievements. She was born on July 16, 1942, in Albury, New South Wales.

Court’s playing style was characterized by her powerful serve and relentless aggression, which earned her the nickname “The Arm.” Her versatility allowed her to excel in both singles and doubles competitions, making her a force to be reckoned with in the tennis world.

Court’s record of 24 Grand Slam singles titles remains unmatched by any other player, a testament to her incredible skill and consistency. She showcased her dominance on multiple surfaces, winning the Australian Open a record 11 times, the French Open five times, Wimbledon three times, and the US Open five times.

Beyond her individual accomplishments, Court was a formidable force in doubles as well. She won a total of 64 major titles across singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, further solidifying her status as one of the most successful tennis players of all time.

Court’s contributions to the sport extend beyond her playing career. She has devoted her post-tennis years to coaching and mentoring young players, passing on her knowledge and love for the game to future generations.

2. Steffi Graf

Born on June 14, 1969, in Mannheim, Germany, Steffi Graf is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.

Graf’s dominant playing style, characterized by her powerful forehand and precise footwork, allowed her to dominate opponents on all court surfaces. Her aggressive baseline game and remarkable consistency made her a formidable force, securing her a remarkable 22 Grand Slam singles titles, a record in the Open Era until 2021.

In 1988, Graf achieved an extraordinary feat by completing the Golden Slam, winning all four major titles and the Olympic gold medal in the same calendar year. This solidified her status as one of the most accomplished tennis players of all time.

Graf’s rivalry with Monica Seles added an extra layer of excitement to the women’s game. Their intense battles captivated fans worldwide and showcased the highest level of athleticism and determination.

Beyond her Grand Slam success, Graf held the world No. 1 ranking for a record 377 weeks, a testament to her sustained excellence and consistency in the sport.

Off the court, Graf has conducted herself with grace and humility, earning the respect and admiration of fans and fellow athletes alike. Her commitment to charitable endeavors, particularly through the Steffi Graf Foundation, showcases her dedication to making a positive impact on society.

1. Serena Williams

Born on September 26, 1981, in Saginaw, Michigan, Serena Williams is my pick for the best female tennis player of all time.

Williams’ powerful and explosive playing style, combined with her exceptional athleticism, has allowed her to dominate opponents throughout her career. Her thunderous serve, devastating groundstrokes, and remarkable court coverage have earned her an astonishing 23 Grand Slam singles titles, the most by any female player in the Open Era.

Beyond her individual success, Williams has also achieved great heights in doubles alongside her sister Venus Williams. Together, they have clinched numerous Grand Slam titles, displaying their harmony and sisterly bond on the court.

Williams’ impact extends far beyond her playing career. As an African-American woman in a predominantly white sport, she has broken down barriers and paved the way for greater diversity and inclusivity. Her calls for gender and racial equality has made her an influential voice both within and outside of tennis.

Furthermore, through the Serena Williams Foundation, she has supported initiatives in education and social justice, empowering communities and making a positive impact on the lives of many.

Honorable Mentions

• Venus Williams: Born on June 17, 1980, Venus Williams has amassed an impressive collection of seven Grand Slam singles titles, including five Wimbledon championships. Her grace, athleticism, and advocacy for equality have solidified her status as a true icon in tennis.

• Evonne Goolangong: Evonne Goolagong, the Australian tennis legend, made a lasting impact on the sport with her exceptional skills and graceful playing style. Born on July 31, 1951, Goolagong’s career was marked by seven Grand Slam singles titles, including four Australian Open championships.

• Justine Henin: Born on June 1, 1982, Justine Henin won seven Grand Slam singles titles, including four French Open championships. Her exquisite one-handed backhand and relentless fighting spirit set her apart as a true champion.

Final Words

While there is no definitive answer to the question of who is the greatest tennis player of all time, the players discussed in this article are all worthy of consideration.

They have all achieved incredible things in their careers, and have had a huge impact on the sport of tennis.

Who do you think is the greatest tennis player of all time?

Image Source: Justin Smith