The Top Ten Tennis Players of All Time
November 20th, 2006 by Michael Stephens
A correspondent from the Sports Truth recently caught up with Boris Becker in Dallas, Tx., where the three-time Wimbledon winner was visiting on business. Becker gratefully endured an impromptu discussion (and photo session) with our staffer, who proclaimed the big-serving German one of tennis’ all-time greats.
Although he enjoyed a good-natured laugh when our reporter expressed his happiness that Ivan Lendl never won Wimbledon, Becker wouldn’t say if he considered himself among the 10 greatest players in history. But this brush with greatness got the Sports Truth editorial board thinking. Who are the top 10 players of all time? Where would Becker and Lendl rank among them? We set out to answer that.
This experiment proved extraordinarily difficult and more than a little subjective, but here’s the list we came up with. The Sports Truth’s Top 10 Tennis Players of All Time:
10 (tie). John McEnroe, Boris Becker, Mats Wilander, Stefan Edberg. Okay, we realize it’s a cop out to have a four-way tie at #10. But these standouts deserve recognition, albeit a step below the nine we’ve ranked higher. Had they played in different decades, and not taken several titles away from each other, all may have compiled even more exceptional records.
Their record in Grand Slam finals is eerily similar: Becker 6-4; Edberg 6-5; McEnroe 7-4; Wilander 7-4. Of the four, only Wilander won the French Open and failed to win Wimbledon. Few enjoyed the All-England Club stage more than Becker, a seven-time finalist and three-time winner. McEnroe’s heroics (and bad-boy antics) in winning four U.S. Opens from 1979-1984 made him a legend at America’s Grand Slam event. Edberg coolly revolutionized the serve-and-volley style.
9. Jimmy Connors. The outrageous lefty edges out the fearsome foursome above by virtue of winning eight slams, but also due to his longevity. He won his last major in ‘83, but a bunch of Connors’ epic performances came many years later. His back-to-back U.S. Open quarterfinal duels with Andre Agassi in the U.S. Open quarterfinals (’88-’89) marked a true changing of the guard, while his unseeded run to the semis (’91) at age 39 was one of the most amazing stories in U.S. Open history. Connors also played for so long that he won the Open on three surfances: clay, grass and hard courts.
8. Bill Tilden. It’s hard to compare a man who’s been dead 53 years to the players of today, but we’ll award Tilden the #8 spot as a tribute to my grandfather, an avid tennis player who - all the way until his death in 1997 at age 89 - insisted Bill was the greatest ever. The 10 majors he won from 1920-1930 certainly support that claim.
Tilden is quite possibly the most paradoxical figure in sports history: A flamboyantly gay man who almost single-handedly changed the image of tennis from that of an elitist, country club activity to a major sport played by world-class athletes, and a fierce competitor whose regimen consisted of smoking heavily and three enormous meals of steak and potatoes daily.
7. Andre Agassi. The greatest statesman, not to mention returner of serve, that tennis has ever known. After bursting on the scene as a teenager with more style than substance, Agassi went on to become one of only five men’s singles players in history to win all four majors. All told, he won eight Grand Slam titles, finished second in seven others, and had countless near misses. Wilander, a Hall of Fame player himself, has said that no one has done more for tennis than Andre. His influence extends beyond the court as well, with countless millions donated to charitable endeavors.
6. Bjorn Borg. Having amassed 11 majors, the Swedish master of clay and grass could easily earn a place in the top three. Had he won just one time in Australia or New York, or not burned out at age 26, we would probably have him there as well. Still, with his blend of power and spin from the baseline, the “Ice Borg” is often credited with developing the style of play that has come to dominate tennis today.
5. Ivan Lendl. The most underrated player of the Open Era, Lendl competed in a record 19 Grand Slam singles finals, winning eight. He held the world #1 ranking for an incredible 270 consecutive weeks at a time when half a dozen chief rivals were Hall of Fame caliber. He played in eight straight U.S. Open finals (1982-1989) and twice lost in finals at Wimbledon, the only major he failed to win.
Lendl wasn’t the most talented player of his time, but he was the best. His success can be attributed to a relentless work ethic, a scientific approach to preparing for and playing the game, and unwavering desire to win every time out. With this professional attitude common in 21st Century stars, Lendl was ahead of his time. A power player in a finesse game, he outworked and overwhelemed adversaries on the way to 94 career wins.
4. Roy Emerson. The six-foot serve-and-volley specialist not only won 12 Grand Slam titles - a record that stood for 33 years until Pete Sampras surpassed him in 2000 - he added 16 more in doubles. He’s the only player to win the career Slam in both categories. Emerson and his counterpart, ranked just above him on our list, dominated the sport in the 1960s and spawned multiple generations of Australian standouts.
3. Rod Laver. Ranking Laver ahead of Emerson is questionable. Both were so talented and successful that distinguishing their greatness is impossible. Emerson won 12 majors, Laver 11. Both won all four majors at least once and enjoyed tremendous Davis Cup success. But one achievement gives Rod the nod in my mind: The true Grand Slam. He won it. Twice. Seven years apart. In 1962 and 1969, Laver swept the majors. Incredible. Despite a modest build and stature, the Aussie boasted the most technically flawless, complete game of his generation - reminiscent of Roger Federer today.
2. Pete Sampras. The seventh-ranked player on our list, Andre Agassi, has said that even if he played perfectly, he had no shot against Pete Sampras if he also played to his potential. That level of talent is simply a cut above, and Sampras backed it up with a 15-year career full of incredible performances. With a record 14 majors and seven Wimbledon crowns, he is undeniably the greatest American player of all time.
What was truly amazing about Sampras was his ability to find another gear, even in the face of extreme pressure and fatigue. As the best player over the course of a decade, competitors always raised their games against him, yet he found a way to muster a big return on break point, an outstretched volley to save a point, or one more booming serve down the middle. A true legend and a marvel to have followed over his entire career.
1. Roger Federer. Five winning streaks of 20 or more. A 242-15 record from 2004 on. Six consecutive Grand Slam finals. The Swiss stalwart may not yet have the resume to claim the title of best player in history, but with nine majors under his belt and the #1 ranking for 146 weeks (and counting), he looks likely to attain it. And he is only 25 years old.
Roger Federer’s serve is powerful and difficult to read. He hits all fundamental shots extremely well, and is an adept volleyer and an excellent baseliner who can dictate play with either style. His footwork, balance, and court coverage are exceptional, and he can alter his game better than anyone in the last 30 years. Not unlike his friend Tiger Woods, the man’s game has no weakness, and mentally, he has the makeup of a champion.
If he wants it badly enough, he will surpass Sampras’ record. The only question is by how much.
June 1st, 2007 at 1:56 am
In terms of pure talent, here’s my top ten of lesser known players from about 1985 until now :
The top 9 (no particular order):
Feliciano Lopez
Henri Lecomte
Goran Ivanisevic
Ivan Lujbicic
Fabrice Santoro
Peter Korda
Cedric Pioline
Marat Safin
Olivier Rocchus
and the #1… Marcello Rios
June 3rd, 2007 at 9:35 pm
Was just surfing the web and noticed this article. What a crock to have Roy Emerson on here. Obviously someone doesn’t know much about there tennis and the “open” era. Roy played against no one of any significance when he was winning his slams and if you recall was a complete flop at the professional level. Pancho Gonzalez drilled Roy when they played and was clearly the most dominant tennis player ever but didn’t even make your top 10. Pretty surprising. If he had not turned pro early he would have won close to 20 slams experts predict and Roy would have been left with virtually nothing. At least you had Rod #3 but his record is also dubious. His first slam was again not against the best players and Lew Hoad for heavens sakes won 39 straight sets from the guy. And why is Andre in your top 10? Never #1 and most of his slams were at the weak Australian.
June 13th, 2007 at 8:19 am
I agree with Rich (above comment) Roy Emerson?? come on, even Bill Tilden?? you can’t even compare him from that era, the game was totally different back then with those ’sticks’ they called raquets, they didn’t even have to go 6 or 7 matches to win a tournament like today. Totally different era, totally different players. Just imagine Emerson or Tilden playing Becker, Johnny Mac or Edberg today, they should easily be above them in the top 10. Thanks.
June 13th, 2007 at 8:22 am
Oh ya, forgot to mention, got to give Jim Courier and Michael Chang a mention for amazing talent as well.
July 8th, 2007 at 1:24 pm
I have to disagree with Rich in regards to Andre Agassi. You can’t fault Agassi for never reaching #1 because he had to play during the most dominant years of Pete Sampras. As for the Australian Open being “weak” I think that is a rather dated notion. The Australian Open was very weak in the 1980s when it was held in December and many great players decided to skip it. By the time Agassi won his titles in Australia (1995, 2000, 2001, 2003) the tournament was again worthy of being called a Grand Slam because all of the best players in the world showed up for it. Also, do not underestimate just how incredible winning the career Grand Slam really is. Agassi was an amazing player and deserves to be in the top ten.
July 9th, 2007 at 1:37 am
Don’t pay attention to me though, cause I’m an idiotic poofter.
July 9th, 2007 at 1:38 am
Yeah, you heard me. Laugh all you want, imbeciles.
July 11th, 2007 at 12:40 am
Sampras is clearly the greatest player of the modern era, and probably any era, though Pancho Gonzalez and Roger Federer would likely give him a very strong run for his money. It is virtually a fact that nobody ever played better under pressure than did Pete. How many times do you remember him making an incredible SECOND serve down break point or double break point in a crucial moment of a big match? That is where you see the real pressure come: down break point second serve coming. There has never been (and probably never will be) another player that could so consistently rise to the occasion at such moments. I strongly believe that if Sampras and Federer were to play each other in their primes on either a grass or hard court Sampras would find a way to win. He just would.
Also, I disagree with McEnroe being ranked so low. He should be above Becker, Edberg, Connors, Lendl, Wilander, and probably Agassi as well. I think he would beat all of those guys if they were to play him at their peak and he at his.
July 11th, 2007 at 9:19 pm
thankyou for remembering “big bill”. bill tilden
July 11th, 2007 at 9:23 pm
i dissagree with placing edberg in the company of willander, becker and mcenroe. he was a step below them, and probably should be palced at number 11 or 12. other than that, your list is exactly how i would make it.
July 15th, 2007 at 5:12 am
THUUUUUUUUUUUUU
July 15th, 2007 at 5:16 am
YOU RASCAL
July 27th, 2007 at 7:56 am
“And why is Andre in your top 10? Never #1 and most of his slams were at the weak Australian.”
Andre Agassi was world #1 on two seperate occasions; April ‘95 - November ‘96 and he also finished ‘99 as world number one after winning the end of season finale.
Personally, I’d have Sampras at number one for his record of Major victories and Agassi at number two as being the only man to have won all of the Majors on different surfaces. While I think Federer will surpass them both, that’s speculative and not a “here and now” assessment.
I would also see Connors, McEnroe and Becker in the top ten but I’m not sure exactly where they’d fit. Bjorn Borg, incidentally, would be just above all of them.
Funnily enough, you couldn’t leave out an Australian but mine wouldn’t be either of those mentioned here - mine would be Lleyton Hewitt. Not only has he won Majors on seperate surfaces, he’s held the #1 spot and exudes the type of warrior spirit that has been missing since Connors himself.
I think that’s me up to about eight, but I couldn’t decide between all the others that have already been mentioned as they’re all good choices. To summarise, then:
1) Pete Sampras.
Lleyton Hewitt.
2) Andre Agassi.
3) Roger Federer.
4) Bjorn Borg.
5) Jimmy Connors.
6) Boris Becker.
7) John McEnroe.
9) [All those previously mentioned]
And as for number ten, there can be no question…
Tim Henman(!)
July 29th, 2007 at 9:32 pm
My list
1]Roger Federer
2]Rod Laver
3]Jimmy Connors
4]John McEnroe
5]Andre Agassi
6]Bjorn Borg
7]Patrick Rafter
8]Pete Sampras
9]Ivan Lendl
10]Roy Emerson
July 31st, 2007 at 7:49 am
Sixth Circle, you put Agassi before Federer, that’s simply absurd. Agassi himself said that Federer is the greatest player he ever faced. I think Federer beat Agassi 8 times in a row…
Also, Steve said that Sampras is the best under pressure with his second serve, etc. First of all, saving break points because of your nerves or second serve isn’t the most important thing in tennis. Anyway, I disagree that Sampras was significantly better than Federer under pressure… did you watch the Wimbledon final this year? Fifth set, remember? Also, how about Federer having a much more complete game, especially his backhand. How about winning 5 Wimbledons in a row? How about the longest winning streak on grass (and hard courts I think)? How about his reputation of being the best striker of the ball in tennis history? That’s what I thought when I saw him at Wimbledon in 2003, and it’s also John McEnroe’s opinion. How about Federer’s incredible winning percentage in the last 4 years (near 95%), which is way better than Sampras at any time during his career? (and it would be even higher if it wasn’t for Nadal, clearly the greatest clay court player ever, and who’s lucky enough to be a lefty so he can naturally hit crosscourt and pound his forehand with tons of spin on Federer’s backhand).
August 15th, 2007 at 9:28 pm
There is much speculation who is the greater player, Sampras or Federer. The only time the two met was at Wimbledon. Roger Federer beat Sampras on that occasion in 5 sets at age 19. He ended Sampras’s 4 year Wimbledon winning streak. Who would have thought later that Federer himself would go on to win 5 in a row and counting. Federer is the more complete player of the two. One example is that Federer is a great clay court player. Only Nadal has stopped Federer from winning the French open on 3 seperate occasions. Once in the semi-finals and twice in the finals. Sampras in his entire career never once made it to the French open final. Federer is a great player on any surface.
Bjorn Borg should be the only other player in this conversation. Borg won 11 grand slam titles by the age of 26. 6 French opens and 5 Wimbledon titles. He clearly was a champion on both slow clay courts and lightning fast grass courts at the same time. No other player since Borg has won the French open and Wimbledon combo in the same year. Borg did it 3 consecutive years. Remarkable! Many people forget how great a player he was. He also made it to 4 U.S. open finals. He never entered the Austrailian open. Had Borg played longer or even made an effort at the Austrailian open he would have surpassed Sampras’s 14 grand slam titles easily.
My top 10 are :
1) Federer
Agassi
2) Borg
3) Sampras
4) Laver
5) Lendl
6) McEnroe
7) Connors
9) Edberg
10)Becker
August 19th, 2007 at 12:16 am
The question today has been who is the best player of all time.Your list is based on the recent performance of Federer and Sampras.The top ten list does not include Pancho Gonzales who was the number one player for over eight years.The old man has wins over Connors and Borg when he was over 40.Why the the lack of respect. I understand Gonzales did not win the grand slams because he turned pro before the open era of tennis.Also Gonzales was not well liked by fans,peers,press and promoters.Call me the next time a 40plus player beats the world number 1.
August 19th, 2007 at 10:19 pm
I totally agree that Federer is the most talented and versatile Tennis player. See the alround performance, court coverage, Intelligent ball placing, Borg-like-Ice-cool temparament… He can speak so many languages effortlessly.. Doing Charities.. No controversies..No Player is accusing him anything..Can make humour.. Candid interviews.. Even he is dominant and winning so much.. still people expect him to demolish egoistic players like Nadal.. His near competitor is Agassi.. He was real entertainer.. He had all shots in the book..Sampras was really a good player..His only strength was Serve & Volley .. Having a wooden face always… People like players like Steffi,Federer,Agassi,Hingis.. who has charming but intelligent play.. always put opponents in wrong directions…
August 21st, 2007 at 2:03 am
None of these lists above has any rational basis. What’s your criteria? None are mentioned. I’ve done this properly (I think), run my criteria past an alltime great tennis writer and came up with a list of the GREATEST OF ALL TIME based strictly upon season by season excellence. Only players who finished #1 for a whole season (or disputed #1) get considered which, interestingly, immediately excludes Roy Emerson. Wake up folks, Roy was NEVER world #1. He was the amateur champ when ROSEWALL, GONZALES and HOAD ruled the pro ranks. After tennis went Open in’68, Roy even offered to retire from playing to help coach
the injured Hoad back to the top of his game. This list includes TILDEN, GONZALES, ROSEWALL and LAVER. I won’t say who comes out on top. Don’t waste my time adding open slams with amateur slams - abject rubbish - or comparing tourament titles that handicap the great pro players who were banned from contesting them pre 1968. As to the guy poking fun at considering an old guy like Tilden, Tilden was rated by some of his peers as still the best player in the world for one set when he was past 50! Genius knows no one era.
August 21st, 2007 at 2:17 am
What the heck. The GREATEST PLAYER OF ALL TIME, based on time at season ending #1 also happens to be the ONLY player I can think of who was ranked #1 in the world as a junior, as an amateur, as a professional, as an open player and as a veteran at various age groups. The Doomsday Stroking Machine, with the greatest backhand ever seen. KEN ROSEWALL. For those of you who add up Majors, if you’re going to include second tier amateur Majors pre 1968, maybe - just out of fairness - you might include the first tier pro Majors (noting that there were only three - the French, British (Wembley) and US Pro. And in the politicised early 1970s, the WCT Final in Dallas was more a Major than the Majors. ROSEWALL won AUSTRALIA 4 times - twice as an amateur and twice in open comp. ROSEWALL won the FRANCE 10 times (oh yes he did!) - once as an amateur, 8 times as a pro and once in open comp. ROSEWALL won the British pro title at Wembley a record 5 times (Laver won it 4 times)when he was banned from Wimbledon. And ROSEWALL won the US title 4 times - once as an amateur, twice as a pro and once in open comp (and didn’t bother to defend his title the next year!). Oh, and he won the first two WCT Finals in Dallas, defeating Laver both times, including the 1972 match then described as the greatest match ever seen. 23 Majors and 2 more virtual Majors. Only Laver comes close, with 19. There’s another world of data out there, if you care to look.
August 25th, 2007 at 8:13 pm
for all of those who said Agassi never reached No 1. you are wrong he was ranked 1 in the world in 1995.
My top 10 list from the open era.
1. Roger Federer
2. Bjorn Borg
3. Rod Laver
4. Pete Sampras
5. Ken Rosewall
6. Andre Agassi
7. Jimmy Connors
8. Michael Chang
9. John McEnroe
10. Novak Djokovic
August 26th, 2007 at 1:05 pm
There can be as many top 10 lists as there are people. But not many of them can put forth half an objective analysis as you did here. To most, they start with their favorite player as #1. Only a true tennis fan, who has all these players as his favorites, can truly rank them.
To that end, you have done a great job. I do think McEnroe deserves to be a bit higher because of his 77 singles, 77 doubles, and his stellar Davis Cup record.
Many players have both beaten and lost to Pete and Roger. Agassi, Henman, Moya, Safin, Hewitt, Roddick, etc.
Agassi’s comments about Pete above are interesting. The same Agassi after playing Federer several times in big matches said something like - With Pete there is a place you can go to, but no where to go against Roger. That’s very telling.
August 28th, 2007 at 10:46 am
While all these arguments are noteworthy, you all are missing so important facts. All categories need to be addressed when looking at the greatest of all time. Rankings, era played, strengths and weaknesses of game, standout shots, titles won, grand slams won, masters series titles won, and a few more. While Agassi only holds the record for master’s series titles won, you can’t fault him throughout his career for having other focuses. You can praise Sampras for focusing solely on tennis and thereby dominating for six consecutive years. But Agassi shouldn’t be penalized for his other endeavours. Who knows how many more tournaments and grand slams he would have won, had he stayed focused and played his best his whole career. Also, how many less would Sampras have because of that. Also, how would this have affected the rankings for Sampras and others. Plus, many people don’t realize this, but Agassi boycotted Wimbledon for a few years at the beginning of his career, because they wouldn’t allow him to wear colors. He also didn’t play at the Australian Open until 1995 (which he won), and he turned pro in 1986. That’s 9 years of not playing in what was his best grand slam. There is so much debate. I will not rank them right now, but my top ten would include these players;
Sampras, Agassi, Federer, Laver, Emerson, Borg, Lendl, Becker, Connors, McENROE, and others could be listed, as ties, with some of these players.
August 28th, 2007 at 10:47 am
While all these arguments are noteworthy, you all are missing so important facts. All categories need to be addressed when looking at the greatest of all time. Rankings, era played, strengths and weaknesses of game, standout shots, titles won, grand slams won, masters series titles won, and a few more. While Agassi only holds the record for master’s series titles won, you can’t fault him throughout his career for having other focuses. You can praise Sampras for focusing solely on tennis and thereby dominating for six consecutive years. But Agassi shouldn’t be penalized for his other endeavours. Who knows how many more tournaments and grand slams he would have won, had he stayed focused and played his best his whole career. Also, how many less would Sampras have because of that. Also, how would this have affected the rankings for Sampras and others. Plus, many people don’t realize this, but Agassi boycotted Wimbledon for a few years at the beginning of his career, because they wouldn’t allow him to wear colors. He also didn’t play at the Australian Open until 1995 (which he won), and he turned pro in 1986. That’s 9 years of not playing in what was his best grand slam. There is so much debate. I will not rank them right now, but my top ten would include these players;
Sampras, Agassi, Federer, Laver, Emerson, Borg, Lendl, Becker, Connors, McENROE, and others could be listed, as ties, with some of these players.
August 30th, 2007 at 2:48 am
George(August 25th)….how can u put Novak Djokovic in ur top ten and not Nadal? neither of them are far enough into there carreer to make the top 10 yet but Nadal is a better player than Djovokic
September 6th, 2007 at 8:29 am
Steve, referrring to an earlier comment of yours: Sampras and Federer did indeed play against eachother in the first Wimbledon final that Federer won. I believe it was in 2003. So, at least in my belief, if Federer can continue playing and surpassing Sampras’ records he is in fact the greatest (or at least better) player.
Furthermore I feel many of the upper rankings are tainted with national or personal preferences. Agassi as number 2? You cannot honestly be serious. Now Borg, HE is worth giving a number 1,2 or 3. The top 3 players, in my opinion, are Borg, Sampras and (if he keeps it up) Federer. Which one is at the top? I don’t believe you can evaluate that fairly.
September 7th, 2007 at 5:04 pm
Top Ten:
1)Federer
2)Sampras
3)Borg
4)Laver
5)Lendl
6)Emerson
7)Connors
8)McEnroe
9)Becker / Agassi
Edberg would slot in at 11.
Regarding the Agassi question, he is my favorite player. He certainly added much to the game via his persona, but tennis-wise he simply does not have the record or skill to justify putting him any higher. On a side note, he would definitely lead my list for best service return or best footwork.
September 17th, 2007 at 12:10 pm
This is NOT written by me, TennisMasta.
Whoever is posting, please be careful to insert your own Name and Mail address. Thanks.
24. TennisMasta Says:
August 28th, 2007 at 10:46 am
September 22nd, 2007 at 3:00 pm
1. Roger Federer
2. Pancho Gonzalez
3. Pete Sampras
4. Rod Laver
5. Bjorn Borg
6. Ken Rosewall
7. Ivan Lendl
8. Don Budge
9. Jimmy Connors
10. Lew Hoad
Notable Mentions: Outside Top 10:
(These would be next few)
Bill Tilden, John McEnroe, Andre Agassi, Boris Becker, Stefan Edberg, Mats Wilander
October 3rd, 2007 at 11:09 pm
I think that putting Federer at 1 is a mistake because he is playing in the easiest generation of tennis ever. Agassi did get beat by him but was close every time. But Andre was ten years older and almost beat him and before 2004 did beat him. I think that Pete should be number 1 followed by Agassi,McEnroe and Laver. I don’t even have Federer in my top ten even if he wins 20 slams. If Federer was in any other decade he would be lucky to have half of the slams he has. Sampras almost beat Federer in 2001 even though he was almost ten years older. I would say Marat Safin is actually the best active player even though he’s crazy.
October 8th, 2007 at 2:44 pm
1) MARCELO RIOS.
John McEnroe.
2) Pete Sampras.
3) Andre Agassi.
4) Roger Federer.
5) Bjorn Borg.
6) Jimmy Connors.
7) Boris Becker.
October 30th, 2007 at 1:56 am
Borg rocks!!
1. Bjorn Borg
2. Edberg
3. Bjorkman
4. sampras
5. faderer
6. Agassi
7. Ivan Lendl
8. Boris Becker
9. John McEnroe
10.Rafter
October 30th, 2007 at 2:03 am
i kind of agree with the top list, but heres mine.
1. Roger Federer
2. Pete sampras
3. ivan lendl
4. Bjorn borg
5. jimmy connors
6. andre agassi
7. John Mcenroe
8. rafael Nadal
9. Bill tilden
10. Roy emerson
November 11th, 2007 at 8:24 pm
I don’t like comparing era’s ever because if the old timers had update equipment and training they would of been better themselves. How would some of these players today do with those wooden little rackets.
November 19th, 2007 at 1:41 pm
Louis Martin, you brought interesting topics, but I think it’s a little too much to consider Nadal the best player ever in clay court. Only in a few years ago I can consider Gustavo Kuerten to be at least as dominant as Nadal is, and in a tougher era. Also, you think Nadal is already better than Borg, who won Roland Garros six times?
November 23rd, 2007 at 9:57 pm
What’s with the notion that Roger Federer is a complete player? They say he can serve/volley, yet he rarely does - just because you can, doesn’t mean you do. Besides Rafael Nadal, who isn’t on the same level as Agassi, which current players can give Federer a run for his money?
Modern day tennis has been on a decline for awhile. Racquet technology ruined a great sport. Alot of former pros/commentators would probably tell you the same thing.
In an era where there is little competition, Roger Federer, though great, is largely overrated.
December 27th, 2007 at 5:23 pm
What the hell are you guys talking about. Andre has reached number 1 more than once. And for a good amont of time.
January 13th, 2008 at 6:52 pm
I think the real ranking should be the following if we consider the all time greats from 1970 afterwards:
1. Pete Sampras
2. Roger Federer
3. Bjorn Borg
4. Ivan Lendl
5. Jimmy Connors
6. Andre Agassi
7. John Mcenroe
8. Mats Wilander
9. Stefan Edberg
10. Boris Becker
11. Jim Courier
12. Guillermo Vilas
13. Rafael Nadal
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:16 pm
1. Roger Federer(For the sheer talent)
2. Rod Laver(The real grandslam man)
3. Bjorn Borg(He achieved everything before he quit
at 26)
4. Pete Sampras(No less than the top three)
5. Pancho Gonzalez(Probably the best serve n vollyer ever)
6. Ivan Lendl(Grasses are left for the best 5)
7. John McEnroe(For his record against the fellow greats he shared the rectangle with)
8. Jimmy Connors(Oh’ man he is as crazy as a tennis player can get)
9. Roy Emerson(Probably the record brings him here)
10.Boris Becker/Andre Agassi
(Both are die-hard fighters,nearly best on their own games)
March 4th, 2008 at 2:38 pm
1. Pete Sampras
2. Roger Federer
3. Bjorn Borg
4. Andre Agassi
5. Rod Laver
This is my opinion of the 5 greatest male tennis players of all time as of March 4, 2008…If Roger Federer wins the French Open or passes the all time grandslam mark than you have no choice but to put him at #1….Then my top five will be:
1. Roger Federer
2. Pete Sampras
3. Bjorn Borg
4. Andre Agassi
5. Rod Laver
March 11th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
1.rod laver
2.pete Sampras
3.Roger feder
4.john Mceroe Don’T Foret he retired Borg amd davis cup matches and doubles
5.Bjorn Borg
6.Roy emerson
7.Jimmy Conners
8.Ivan lendal
9.Boris becker- Edberg
10.Arther Ashe
March 11th, 2008 at 1:05 pm
1.Rod Laver
2.Jimmy Connors -won the US open on clay, grass & hardcourt (5 US open titles)
3.Pete Sampras
4.John Mcenroe
5.Bjorn Borg
6.Roger Federer
7.Roy Emerson
8.Stefan Edberg
9.Boris Becker-Agassi
10.Jim Courier/Thomas Muster-greatest clay court player/Ivan Lendl
April 16th, 2008 at 7:17 pm
In my opinion the two most naturally talented players of all time were John McEnroe and Boris Becker. They had the flaw that so many great geniouses have: They lacked the discipline and consistency that made Sampras, Federer, Lendl etc. because more successfull.But I am conviced and haev seen it many times a Boris Becker and a John McEnroe at their best by any other player at his best.
May 19th, 2008 at 8:27 am
Agree Boris Becker was without a doubt the most naturally gifted player’s of all time. Was also the most unluckiest not to improve on his grand slam winning performance on grass if it wasn’t for Pete. Otherwise, he would of surpassed Borg’s tally.
1.Pete Sampras
2.Roger Federer
3.Bjorn Borg
4.John Mcenroe
5.Boris Becker
6.Ivan Lendl
7.Jimmy Connors
8.Stefan Edberg
9..Andre Agassi
10.Rod Laver
—————
Rafael Nadal (will break into top 10 in a few years)
May 19th, 2008 at 8:27 am
sorry that was me!
May 25th, 2008 at 6:25 pm
A lot of people think that Rodger Federer is good. And he is but not even close to Andy Roddick or Pete Sampras
June 13th, 2008 at 1:02 pm
There seems to be some agreement here that Stefan Edberg belongs in the top 10. I don’t see it at all. Grand Slam titles alone can be misleading. Never a dominant player and four of his six Slams were on grass. A great player to be sure and his win over Sampras at the US Open in 1992 was enormous. Just not a legend. What is the case for ranking him above Agassi, who won more times on more surfaces?
June 27th, 2008 at 6:33 am
Altough you may think it is not me, I am Roger Federer and believe that the following players are (Excluding myself):
1. Sampras
2. Laver
3. Borg
4. Lendl
5. Connors
6. Agassi
7. Mcenroe
8. Becker
9. Edberg
10.Wilander
11. Courier
12. Radal
13. Vilas
July 2nd, 2008 at 12:29 pm
Best all time player is Sampras - no doubt.
I have had the joy of watching him throughout his career and considering the competition that was around at the time compared to now, he is in my mind the best.
Regardless of whether or not Federer breaks his record of GS wins, Sampras at his best was unplayable. Even Federer would have little chance.
July 2nd, 2008 at 12:37 pm
Post no. 44 proves my point.
Sampras’s era had many great players that were capable of winning. Namely players like Becker, Agassi, Courier to name a few and many big hitters also.
This modern game posseses few players of exceptional talent and the disparity between the top two (Federer and Nadal) and the rest is too large. In short, I believe there has been a distinct lack of talent since early 2000’s lending towards Federer’s records.
July 2nd, 2008 at 12:42 pm
Again, person at post 36 has summarised what I have been trying to say in that in the modern era where as he says, racket and ball technology have ruined the sport and slowed down tennis.
Federer is the only real talent (Nadal is not much more than a clay court specialist) against a cureent top 20 of distinctly average players compared to the golden era (90’s)
July 6th, 2008 at 4:12 pm
If Roger keeps on doing what he is in 2008, he’s sure gonna be out, but anyway HE ROCKS.Quoting Nadal “He’s the world no 1 and probably the toughest i’ve faced.”
Sampras was superb so #1. I’m speechless about sampras and Borg, quoting McCnroe ‘My blood boils when I play Bjorn”
TOP 5
1. Sampras
2. Federer
3. Borg
4. Lendl
5. McCenroe
July 12th, 2008 at 6:46 am
None of you seem to rate Rafael Nadal very highly. Now, post-Wimbledon 2008, would anyone like to take a crack at motivating this? What parts of the game are Nadal missing, do you think, that keeps him out of the top-10 list?
August 4th, 2008 at 10:01 am
RODGER FEDERER WILL ROAR AGAIN PATRIK.QUATING
NADAL,”NO MATTER,IF HE WINS 14 OR 13 OR EVEN 12,HE IS THE GREATEST EVER!”
August 9th, 2008 at 10:24 am
Federer is the undisputed king of tennis in the 21st century. and if anyone thought he’s got no challenge youre wrong at all. He’s got young talents like nadal, ferrer, djokovic, roddick and many. even though his performance has been bad he rocks!
my top ten are
1. sampras
2. federer
3. borg
4. lendl
5. connors
6. becker
7. laver
8. nadal
9. agassi
10.djokovic
August 9th, 2008 at 10:28 am
i completely disagree with people who think nadal is bad. not at all. he’s very good. hes got talent, style, thought, technique, everything. roger is excellent and nadal is too. now dont think roger is bad cause he isnt. though his performance in 208 was not upto the mark.
August 17th, 2008 at 8:52 am
1. NADAL 2. NADAL 3 NADAL 4 NADAL 5. NADAL 6 NADAL 7 NADAL 8 NADAL 9 NADAL 10 NADAL IYe is oozing with SEX
September 2nd, 2008 at 7:41 am
roger federer the best ever tennis player in the history of tennis.he will remain the best now and for ever.
September 9th, 2008 at 5:15 am
I can only judge from about 1985 onwards and my favourite players are Edberg & Federer. Sampras was amazing but it was during the dominant period of the boring power serve and volleyers like him, Stich, Ivanisevic, Phillopousis etc. Agassi was always appreciated during these times as he had a more all round game. Its always better when there are players around who can compete on all surfaces unlike Sampras’ era when it was either one or the other. Federer’s disadvantage is that he is perhaps too dominant which is why people say he is overrated because of a lack of good competition. For this reason it is good that players such as Nadal and Djokovic are coming to the fore. But let’s not forget very good players such as Roddick and Hewitt whose careers have been totally frustrated by Federer. Indeed, it was Roddick who was tipped to become Sampras’ successor and Federer just blew him away. My subjective top five since 1985 is:
1. Federer
2. Sampras
3. Agassi
4. Edberg
5. Lendl
September 18th, 2008 at 3:40 pm
I don’t think that federer will dominate tennis now as he did in the past few years, with the rise of nadal, djokovic and even murray. But I still think he will win a minimum of one slam a year, which will take him past sampras’ record of 14 slams. That will surely seal the argument of who is the greatest in a few years time - Federer!
November 11th, 2008 at 9:34 am
1. Edberg
2. Lendl
3. Federer
4. Borg
5. Wilander
6. Sampras
7. Agassi
8. Laver
9. Connors
November 17th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
I think since 1983 the top players have been:
1. Federer 7.Edberg
2. Sampras 8.Courier
3. Agassi 9.Rafter
4. Lendl 10.McEnroe(For 1984)
5. Becker
6. Nadal
November 22nd, 2008 at 1:07 am
I think it is difficult to compare the open era to the pre-open era.
Also I have just focussed on singles.
So the top ten in the open era in singles are:
1. Sampras
2. Federer
3. Borg
4. Lendl
These are certanties, the remainder the rest can be mixed up a bit
5. Agassi
6. Connors
7. McEnroe
8. Becker
9. Wilander
10. Edberg
January 7th, 2009 at 1:13 pm
1. john mcenroe retired borg most tournaments with doubles and singles. 5 time davis cup champ.
2.Boris becker
3.nadal
4.sampras
5.borg
6.conners
7 lendl lost too many big matches. great athlete not half the talent of mcenroe.
8.federer
9.agassi
10.courier/edberg/wilander/ashe/laver/gonlazez/emerson/adam grobstein ranked 2 at rampo 94
January 23rd, 2009 at 5:12 pm
Those of you sayig Sampras woulda beaten Fed in their primes are CRAZY. I’m not saying Fed would wipe the court with him; I’m saying that it is impossible to make Sampras a decided favorite in that theoretical matchup. In fact, I think if you break it down, Fed would have the slight edge:
1) Serve - Advantage Sampras (slight)
2) Forehand - Advantage Fed (slight)
3) Backhand - Advantage Fed (slight)
4) Volley - Advantage Sampras (slight)
5) Defense - Advantage Fed
6) Footwork - Advantage Fed
7) Mental Toughness - Even
Fed rules
January 29th, 2009 at 7:50 am
Oy fags if you are all so perfect at pickiing the top ten why don’t you get a job that lets you do it see this guy got paid for his article probably you all just wasted your fuckin time.
March 28th, 2009 at 8:38 am
Based on who would or did win head to head at their peak, not slam wins. Minimum 6 slams to qualify.
1. Nadal 08-09
2. Federer 04-07
3. Sampras 93-98
4. Agassi 95,99-00
5. Lendl 85-87, 89
6. McEnroe 81,84
7. Borg 78-80
8. Connors 74, 82-83
9. Edberg 90,-91
10. Becker 89,90
Laver and Wilander are honourable mentions
April 12th, 2009 at 12:02 am
My top 10
1. Federer
2. Nadal
3. Sampras
4. Bjorg
5. McEnroe
6. Connors
7. Becker
8. Edberg
9. Rod laver
10.Lendl
April 15th, 2009 at 11:05 am
My top 10 is:
1.Nadal
2.Borg
3.Federer
4.Laver
5.Connors
6.Mcenroe
7.Sampras
8.Lendl
9.Agassi
10.Santana
April 27th, 2009 at 11:01 pm
I think for the titles the best of all is Sampras.Federer’s era has end and he didn’t win more than Pete.Now is time for Nadal,and with 22 he has 6 Grand Slams,he can become the best of all. At the moment my list is:
1-Sampras
2-Federer
3-Borg
4-Agassi
5-Lendl
6-McEnroe
7-Becker
8-Nadal
9-Connors
10-Laver
May 6th, 2009 at 4:55 am
top 10 hoad conzales sampras laver budge federer macenroe rosewall borg emerson
May 23rd, 2009 at 6:17 am
my top ten
1. Pete Sampras
2. Andre Agassi
3. Rafael Nadal
4. Bjorn Borg
5. Roger Federer
6. John McEnroe
7. Boris Becker
8. Bill Tilden
9. Jimmy Connors
10. Rod Laver
to me , these players are the BEST
June 4th, 2009 at 3:43 am
Pete Sampras. Greatest wins in Slam history always seem to involve Sampras. Federer shows that he is more than capable of losing big points. The greatest ever lose very little big points. Pete was so good that people got bored of him. That’s efficiency. Federer is having ups and downs. Pete was on top until the end.
Final case in point. Match Federer against Pete. yes Federer beat Pete but close match of a man who’s completely done with the sport and one who was beginning to peak. Now imagine the opposite. A retiring Federer against a peaking Pete. Pete would have sent Roger home looking for mommy. That would have been devastating. And yet in reality Pete almost won that match.
Yes Pete Sampras. The greatest, scariest and yet most boring player ever. He was so good that people were hoping he would do some stand up routine because his matches were so incredibly lopsided.
ps. also how can Federer ever be greatest ever when he cowers in front of Nadal who took number 1 from him. Agassi was a great rival to Pete but everyone knew that Pete was a higher level. The greatest amongst the great
June 7th, 2009 at 1:47 pm
“A lot of people think that Rodger Federer is good. And he is but not even close to Andy Roddick or Pete Sampras”
hehe that’s hilarious. (Federer beat him 18 times in 20 matches)
“UN CHILENO Says:
October 8th, 2007 at 2:44 pm
1) MARCELO RIOS.”
i guess u are from Chili
swede Says:
October 30th, 2007 at 1:56 am
Borg rocks!!
1. Bjorn Borg
2. Edberg
3. Bjorkman
i gues u are from sweden
more seriously:
yes Federer is the greatest ever, i would put Rod Laver second, Borg third, Sampras fourth McEnroe fith (a genius)
June 7th, 2009 at 11:33 pm
Federer is the best he has won 14 grand slams so don’t even compare him to samprass now that record is done federer will win plenty more.
1. Roger Federer
2. Pete Sampras
3. Andre Agassi
4. Bjorn Borg
5. Rod Laver
June 7th, 2009 at 11:39 pm
He is also one of six men to win on all four grand slam surfaces. Sampras never achieved that.
June 8th, 2009 at 12:02 pm
Guys here we go. I should first point out that my FAVORITE player of all-time is Connors hands down. Saw him play live three times and even as he was on his downslide, he was fun to watch.
BUT, top ten players really should be with a caveat that on any given day, when in their prime, any of these players stand a chance to beat the other:
My list:
1. Sampras–At his best, when is serve and volley was working (most of the time) he was very special to watch.
2. Federer–He’s tied Sampras’ record in a very short period of time; he’s very gracious and great to the fans, and he’s got a long time to go to obliterate the grand slam record. I still think, if you put the two on the court, all things being equal, Pete would eek out a win.
3. Borg-Couldn’t win a slam on the hard courts, but was unbeatable on clay and nearly the same on grass.
4. Connors-People say Andre has the best return of serve in the history of the game, but I put that with a huge asterisk next to it…Jimmy Connors played much of his career with the same old school racket and still had a blistering return of serve. If he played with the same racket that Andre did in his career, I think Connors, with his ability to take the ball on the rise and wail on it, could make you think twice. New York loved the guy!
5. Agassi-Despite what I said above, great return of serve, good movement and speed. Did win all four slams. Hate him, but he was a special player.
6. McEnroe-Great serve and volley, good return, fun to watch also for his on court antics.
7. Laver-Great player, not much to say about him, as it was primarily before my time.
8. Lendl-Frankenstein on the court. Great serve. BUT, I hate him. Despite that, he did reach the finals of the U.S. Open from ‘82 to ‘89 so you have to give him something. Just took him awhile to win one.
9. Tilden-Before my time. Know he was great.
10. Emerson-Same as above.
Should mention, Becker is not forgotten, his return of serve and his serve and volley make him very dangerous to anyone on this list; especially on grass.
June 9th, 2009 at 4:24 am
1. Andy Murray!
Just you wait and see. In five years everyone will agree.
I often wonder how all the players in history would play in todays modern game. I can’t help but think the likes of connors and Jon Mc would be right up there with the best just because of their natural talent. I don’t bjorg would have survived against the likes of Federer and i think Agassi would always be right up there given his natural ability. The most exciting era of tennis is long gone which is sad. The game needs to be slowed down.
June 17th, 2009 at 4:11 am
i agree with matman. Most think Federer is the greatest, yet Murray has thrashed him in five of their last six meetings…..
June 18th, 2009 at 8:20 am
1.Roger Federer
2.Pete Sampras
3.Andy Murray
4.Andrea Agassi
5.Rafael Nadal
6.Ilie Nastase
7.Novack Djokivik
8.Juan Martin Del Potro
9.Andrei Pavel
10.Alexandrescu Alexandru
June 18th, 2009 at 8:23 am
1.ROGER FEDERER
2.Superman
3.Goku
4.Adrian Mutu
5.Don Omaer
June 18th, 2009 at 8:24 am
1.ROGER FEDERER
Ther is no also beter then him
June 21st, 2009 at 2:27 am
we could all argue for ever. i saw hoad play conzales in 1959 and then hoad play laver at his pro debut in jan 1963 at white city sydney. i think if you put the new equipmentin the hands of hoad and conzales the boys today would not see the ball. i rate either one of them 1 and 2 of all time . work the rest out/
June 22nd, 2009 at 2:32 pm
Ive seen almost all the greatest games of the players that people here put in their rankings. what i can say is that people who consider that federer has no competition in this era must not be watching too much tennis nowadays. any ranking player nowadays can deliver greater power and technique in their shots that players from the 70s era and below will have difficulty or no chance to contend even with in their prime. TENNIS IS BIGGER THAN EVER THIS TIME AROUND. as time goes by, the sport improves and so does the players. Also, the bigger the sport becomes, the harder the competition is. Federer’s feat of dominating tennis with finnesse during this power generation is proof of that.
I was a huge fan of Sampras before Federer arrived and I see Sampras as the only one who can stand toe to toe with Federer in their prime. I was a fan of Borg and Becker during their days. but their time is over and their game have been eclipsed by Federer. I can see Murray, Rafa (if he improves his overall game) in my top 10 soon though.
July 7th, 2009 at 1:41 pm
20 “Greatest” of All Time
Rod Laver
###
Bill Tilden
###
Don Budge
Roger Federer*
###
Fred Perry
Ellsworth Vines
Jack Kramer
Pancho Gonzalez
Ken Rosewall
Lew Hoad
Roy Emerson
John Newcombe
Arthur Ashe
John McEnroe
Ivan Lendl
Jimmy Connors
Bjorn Borg
Andre Agassi
Boris Becker
Pete Sampras
______
* Still active. Could move up.
July 7th, 2009 at 5:04 pm
Congrats to Roger Federer winning French and Wimbeldon. Let’s see if he wins The US open as well. What does a guy need to do to be considered the all time best. People were righting him off last year and he still one the US open. He has also been in more Grand slam finals then any other player in History. He now also has a career Grand slam. He has also been injury free for most of his career and is now back as the #1 player, a position he has earned and deserves. It is unfortunate that Nadal is injured but consistancy and health is part of the long term picture of greatness.
July 25th, 2009 at 6:45 am
Everyone gave a great list but where is Pete Sampras 7 times Wimbledon winner, and Roger Federer who beat Pete Sampras record of 15 Grand Slams, Nadal who won consecutively 81 matches in the court of Roland Garros,
July 29th, 2009 at 12:21 am
My list now is:
1. Roger Federer
2. Pete Sampras
3. Bjorn Borg
4. Rod Laver
5. Andre Agassi
August 3rd, 2009 at 6:45 am
roddick should be in he is the best server of all time
August 6th, 2009 at 10:20 pm
rodger
sampras
conners
laver
emerson
lendl
borg
tilden
agassi
becker
August 16th, 2009 at 10:36 am
O YEAH ROGER FEDERER is the best and will always be the best I LOVE IT
August 18th, 2009 at 7:36 am
yeah roddick is good but the only good thing in his game is his serve and his speed federer is good at everything else but i still think sampras was better in his primE.I mean come on he stayed on top of tennis for a record six years in a row and he has the record for the most weeks at number 1 in the most competetive era in tennis history.Federer is third on the weeks at number 1 when half of that time was when he was the only really good player.
September 8th, 2009 at 1:23 am
Agassi and Sampras have both praised federer as the best of all time, so I don’t think there’s really any debate here.
September 8th, 2009 at 5:41 am
federer
Laver
Borg
Sampras
lendle
conner
Aaggasi
Mccenro
Ndal
becker
September 14th, 2009 at 10:03 am
Many of you are simply missing the point. The Players themselves know that the Grand Slam events, at least since 1968 are the only events where the whole field is present and players must win 3 sets to proceed.
Therefore other tournaments just cannot be considered in answering this question.
Before the Open Era times were completely different, The number of tennis players in the field to compete with worldwide was so much smaller that the competition is simply not comparable with what it is today. There are too many variables to consider and too many errors in evaluation to be made.
You could argue forever and ever without coming to a final conclusion.
Therefore it is probably best to mention All time greatest per Era, or simply stick to counting Grand Slam titles only as this is what the players themselves go for when they play.
1. Roger Federer (15 and counting)
2. Pete Sampras (14)
3. Roy Emerson (12)
4. Rod Laver - Bjorn Borg (11)
6. Bill Tilden (10)
7. Jimmy Connors - Andre Agassi - Ivan Lendl - Ken Rosewall - Fred Perry (8)
those who chose money over fame prior to 1968 like Pancho Gonzales and Lew Hoad cannot be called the the best player of all time. winning Grand slams is what it’s all about.
As for Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962, 1969), respect for winning all GS in the same year, that needs to be considered as well. but all things considered, the games has rules and the simplest rule should be binding so Rodger and Pete, until Nadal or anyone else steps up, You are the greatest.
September 14th, 2009 at 10:43 am
For the Open Era:
1. Roger Federer (15 and counting)
2. Pete Sampras (14)
3. Bjorn Borg (11)
4. Jimmy Connors, Ivan Lendl, Andre Agassi (8)
7. John McEnroe - Mats Wilander (7)
9. Rafael Nadal - Boris Becker - Stefan Edberg (7 - ‘and counting for Nadal’)
Rod Laver (5/11) and Ken Rosewall (4/8) to be noted as additional in the top ten for having GS titles in both pre and post Open Era.
September 15th, 2009 at 7:54 pm
personally there are so many reasons why federer is not number one. first of all federer has a 7-13 record against Nadal. doesn’t that mean Nadal is better that Federer. also Rod Laver (the Rocket) won 11 grand slams and he missed multiple years of his career immediately after winning all four grand slams in one year. this wold have been his prime and who knows how many grand slams he would have won.
September 16th, 2009 at 6:53 pm
You have done a good analysis… but the list is at fault at number one:
whatever you talk about other players… this list will not be disapproved:
Sampras cannot be surpassed by anyone till now.
1. Pete Sampras
2. Roger Federer
3. Bjorn Borg
4. Ivan Lendl
5. Jimmy Connors
6. Andre Agassi
7. John Mcenroe
8. Mats Wilander
9. Stefan Edberg
10. Boris Becker
11. Jim Courier
12. Guillermo Vilas
13. Rafael Nadal
September 17th, 2009 at 12:08 pm
I am glad I had a chance to read your post, if you have more information on positions let me know or post it here.
Mike
September 18th, 2009 at 9:27 am
Rafael Nadal beats the shit out of all those players. Keep dreaming Federer.
September 18th, 2009 at 11:28 am
1. Roger federer
2. pete sampras
3. Rod laver
4. Rafael nadal
5. borg
September 25th, 2009 at 10:00 am
Not a bad list overall but I’m not too sure I agree with all the choices. I was looking this up for nostalgias sake and the best page I found so far was this
life123.com/sports/golf-tennis/tennis/top-ten-tennis-players.shtml Hope you agree.
October 10th, 2009 at 12:06 pm
If you had a time machine and put Federer and Sampris back to the 70s without these plastic butterfly nets they call tennis raquets,these are the players they would have to play.
Borg
Conners
Mcenroe
Lendle
Vilas
Nastase
Pananta
Orantes
Ash
Laver
Rosewall
Geratalitis (spell)
Newcomb
(AND MORE!)
ALL of these guys won Grand Slams.All of these guys were as good as anyone today except MAYBE Nadal,Sampras or Fed.So if you put them BACK in time thier records would not be NEAR as good!
October 30th, 2009 at 10:42 pm
Roger Federer
Pete Sampras
Rod Laver
Bjorn Borg
Roy Emerson
October 30th, 2009 at 10:42 pm
Roger Federer will win 18-20 majors before he is done. afael Nadal will win 10-11 majors before he is done.
December 1st, 2009 at 7:19 pm
1. Bjorn Borg
…then rest can fight over 2-10 !
December 1st, 2009 at 9:00 pm
Those who claim Federer had no competition know nothing. He had more competition than Sampras and surely more than Laver. Federer’s 28 now and has to deal with several young players (Del Potro, Murray, Djokovic, Nadal and lots of upcoming new ones like Cilic) yet he’s still in all major finals in a season, winning 2/4. In 2002-2006 there was Safin, Roddick (that’s right - he was playing way better than he is today), Hewitt, Nalbandian, Agassi was still playing well, Ferrero - doesn’t sound like “no competition” to me.
I don’t remember Sampras playing once in 4 GS finals in a year, I don’t remember him playing once in a French Open final. Who did Sampras have to play against in his prime (1993-1998)? Edberg after 1993 was done, Courier after 1993 was done, Becker played well only in 1995-early 1996, Agassi was his main rival, but he had lots of slumps in his career (1991, 1993, 1996-1997). Btw you can’t call a player the GOAT if he had only 1 shot - that is the serve.
IMO only 2 players can still compete with Federer for the GOAT title - that is Pancho Gonzales and Rod Laver. Sometimes I don’t know what it’s all about when Laver, Borg, Sampras, Agassi, Mcenroe (getting sometimes orgasmic), Wilander (same), Becker, Connors have all called Federer the greatest. What else do you need if everyone agrees?
December 14th, 2009 at 8:58 pm
@ Rich (comment #2):
“why is Andre in your top 10? Never #1″
Andre was actually ranked #1 for a relatively short time. But I agree with you to some extent. Maybe a #10 spot would have been more fair. The one that bothers me is Connors @ #9. Connors was #1 for 160 consecutive weeks, 268 weeks total! The guy played from the late 60’s to the early 90’s! And what a way to end his career at the age of 40 with an epic win vs Krikstein which got him all the way to the QF! #9? Connors? I don’t think so.
December 14th, 2009 at 9:03 pm
correction:
“all the way to the QF”
-> all the way to the [ US OPEN ] QF!
December 30th, 2009 at 8:42 pm
Mcenroe at #10? C’mon. Laver and Tilden? Really? And Agassi’s spot is also unlikely. This isn’t a serious list of all-time greats…it’s a sampling of good players from every era.
December 30th, 2009 at 8:45 pm
Mcenroe at #10? C’mon. Laver and Tilden? Really? And Agassi’s spot is also unlikely. This isn’t a serious list of the greatest ever…it’s a sampling of best players from every decade. Any of the players from the 80’s 90’s or 00’s would have knocked the ball down Laver’s throat…hell..most of the women today would beat Laver.
January 5th, 2010 at 12:38 am
federer does not deserve to be in the top ten
and where is Marat Safin
He owns Federer
January 15th, 2010 at 6:05 am
Nobody will ever come close to Rod Laver in terms of pure talent.
If he was around today with the tennis rackets and balls they use today he would be unbeatable.
His speed and agility around the court was phenomenal.
Don’t forget either that Laver was not allowed to compete on the tour for 6 years because he turned pro.
If he had he would have won at least 15 more grand slam events possibly more.
January 20th, 2010 at 5:43 pm
1.Federer
2.Sampras
3.Borg
4.Lendl
5.Connors
6.Mcenroe
7.Agassi
8.Becker
9.Edberg
10.Wilander
11.Nadal
12.Courier
13.Vilas
January 25th, 2010 at 8:44 pm
1. Federer
2. Borg
3. Sampras
4. Laver
5. McEnroe
6. Lendl
7. Becker
8. Agassi
9. Emerson
10. Courier
January 29th, 2010 at 10:38 pm
Roger has now proved he is the best of all time, he has now won the french open and holds most of tennis’s records but he is not perfect. HE wants to silence the critic by owning murray and destorying that 4-6 record and also dominate nadal who is clearly burnt out he can also take the overall weeks at no1 record form sampras his wimbeldon records and tie or better agassi 4 aus opens in open era . He has yet to win a davis cup mainly because switzerland is a small tennis country while spain ,france, russia, usa all have so many top20 players at once . He has yet to win an olmpic gold medal but has won the doubles medal the 2000 olmpics where fed was fourth marked the start of his great career it just so happens the 2004 and 2008 olpmpics were the beginning and end of federer’s invincible era where he was virtually unbeatable he wants to win 2012 olmpic gold medal to finish his long illustrious career. he owns the all time grass and hard court consecutives match streaks and has the 4th and 7th most consecutives math streaks.
February 7th, 2010 at 1:46 am
shh..the debate about greatest player of all time already rested!! RogerFederer the great, greater, greatest player of all time !! later sampras,laver,borg,emerson.lendl,connors,agassi,nadal,rosewell………..
February 9th, 2010 at 12:32 pm
There is no doubt Roger federer is the greatest tennis player of all time.