The Kings of Tennis

It’s never easy to select the top players from a game like tennis, but there are always some players who dominate the courts. Here are six of the most loved tennis greats, who have kept the game alive on the courts and in our hearts.

Rod Laver

From 1964 to 1970 and consistently ranking World No.1, this Aussie player dominated the sport like no other. Laver is the only player in tennis history to have won the Grand Slam twice. Fans describe him as technically flawless and he was aptly nicknamed the ‘Rocket’. With 11 Grand Slam tournaments under his belt, critics regard Laver as the best tennis player of all time.

Pete Sampras

Ever since his 1990 US Open win, Sampras ruled the tennis courts till 2002, displaced only by Federer. His power play and athleticism earned him the nickname ‘Pistol Pete’. Before 2009, Sampras had a record 14 Grand Slam titles and his seven Wimbledon titles showcased his love for grass courts. Sampras also won a record-tying five US titles and spent 286 weeks at the pole position. However, his inability to win the French Open mars his glory a little.

Bjorn Borg

If not for his four losses at the US Open Finals, this Swede might have been at the top of this list. Though the US Open and the Australian Open titles always eluded him, his six French Open titles and five consecutive Wimbledon crowns make one of the best in the game. With a rock-star appearance, ‘Iceman’ Borg was known for never giving up and his ability to perform on any court.

Roger Federer

With his impeccable timing and graceful strokes, Federer is a complete package and a treat to watch. The Swiss has won 16 Grand Slam titles and achieved the career Grand Slam once. ‘Fedex’ won his first title at the 2003 Wimbledon and has never looked back since. Considered as the successor to Sampras, Federer continues to dominate the court with his speed and agility and is often regarded the greatest tennis player ever.

Roy Emerson

While Rod Laver was busy firing up the courts in the ’60s, fellow Australian and rival Roy Emerson was just a little behind, demolishing opponents with his powerful serves. His total of 28 Grand Slam titles is an all-time record by any tennis player. Though his serve and volley style of play earned him 12 single titles, Emerson was more famous as a doubles player with 16 titles.

John McEnroe

Possibly the most passionate and animated of the lot, American player McEnroe was naturally gifted in tennis. His challenges on the court and his disputes with umpires are notorious and have often overshadowed his influence on the game. He was known for his brilliant volleys and artistic shots that earned him plaudits from both fans and critics. By the time he retired, McEnroe had seven Grand Slam single titles, nine double titles and one mixed doubles title.