AI Ranks the Best Men’s Tennis Players Since 2000

September 4, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

The 21st century has produced a golden generation of men’s tennis — a period defined by greatness, rivalry, and reinvention. While the “Big Three” of Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic have set historic benchmarks, others have made their mark through Grand Slam glory, Olympic triumphs, and unforgettable battles on the biggest stages.

To bring some objectivity into the debate, an AI was asked to rank the greatest male tennis players of this century — not just by trophies, but by influence, peak performance, and staying power.

Here’s the top 10, ranked from #10 to #1.

10. Juan Martín del Potro

Del Potro’s career may have been plagued by injuries, but his talent was undeniable. His crowning moment came at the 2009 US Open, where he defeated both Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer to claim his first and only Grand Slam. Known for his thunderous forehand and unshakable resolve, the Argentine became a fan favorite for his perseverance and sportsmanship. While injuries shortened his time at the top, his peak level remains unforgettable.

9. Alexander Zverev

A fixture in the world’s top 10 for much of the past decade, Zverev boasts multiple Masters 1000 titles and a gold medal from the Tokyo Olympics. He’s reached multiple Grand Slam finals, though a major title still eludes him. His all-court game, anchored by a powerful serve and baseline consistency, makes him one of the most well-rounded players of his generation. Despite setbacks — including a serious ankle injury — Zverev has remained a constant threat on tour.

8. Daniil Medvedev

Unorthodox but brilliant, Medvedev has redefined defensive tennis. His 2021 US Open title, where he beat Djokovic in straight sets, was a career-defining moment. A hard-court specialist with exceptional mental strength, Medvedev’s deep positioning and flat groundstrokes have baffled opponents. Though less successful on clay, his strategic genius and longevity inside the top ranks have earned him a place among the elite.

7. Stan Wawrinka

Wawrinka may not have the weekly dominance of the Big Three, but his ability to peak at Grand Slams is legendary. With three major titles — all against either Djokovic or Nadal in the final — he’s earned a reputation as the ultimate big-match player. His one-handed backhand is one of the game’s finest weapons, and during his prime, he was capable of beating anyone, anywhere. Injuries slowed his rise, but his clutch performances made history.

6. Jannik Sinner

Still only 24, Sinner already holds four Grand Slam titles, including the 2024 Australian Open and 2025 Wimbledon. Currently world No. 1, the Italian’s explosive groundstrokes, court coverage, and poise under pressure set him apart from his peers. With just the French Open missing from his trophy cabinet, a Career Grand Slam feels inevitable. If his trajectory holds, Sinner may one day rise even higher on this list.

5. Carlos Alcaraz

At just 22, Alcaraz has already shaken up the tennis world. With five Grand Slam titles and landmark wins over legends like Djokovic, he’s the face of the next generation. His Wimbledon victory in 2023 marked a changing of the guard, and his all-surface versatility evokes comparisons to Rafael Nadal. Combining raw athleticism with tactical brilliance, Alcaraz is not just the future — he’s already one of the greats.

4. Andy Murray

Murray’s greatness lies not just in titles, but in context. Competing in the toughest era in history, he won three Grand Slams, reached 11 finals, claimed two Olympic golds, and rose to world No. 1 in 2016. His Wimbledon triumph in 2013 ended a 77-year British drought, earning him national hero status. Add to that a miraculous return to tour with a metal hip, and Murray’s legacy is built on grit, brilliance, and sheer will.

3. Roger Federer

The man who redefined elegance in tennis. Federer’s 20 Grand Slam titles include five straight at both Wimbledon and the US Open, and his effortless style won hearts around the world. More than numbers, Federer brought grace, creativity, and global popularity to the sport. Though later surpassed in stats, his influence and aura remain unmatched. For many, he’s the greatest ever — even if not statistically.

2. Rafael Nadal

Nadal's 14 French Open titles may never be matched — a record that symbolizes his unmatched dominance on clay. Yet he proved himself on all surfaces, capturing 22 Grand Slam titles and completing the Career Grand Slam by age 24. Known for his fighting spirit and epic comebacks, Nadal’s relentless style and mental fortitude made him the ultimate competitor. Injuries may have limited his totals, but his legacy is unquestionable.

1. Novak Djokovic

The numbers speak loudest: 24 Grand Slam titles, most weeks as world No. 1, and the only man to complete the Career Grand Slam three times. Djokovic has mastered all surfaces, evolved his game with age, and remained dominant deep into his 30s. His return game, stamina, and mental toughness have allowed him to thrive against — and surpass — both Federer and Nadal. Love him or hate him, Djokovic is the defining player of the 21st century.