The Ultimate Ranking: 15 Best Male Tennis Players in History

February 11, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

Tennis is a sport rich in history, filled with legendary players who have shaped the game over decades. Ranking the greatest male tennis players of all time is no easy task and often sparks passionate debates. Each fan has their own criteria—be it Grand Slam titles, head-to-head rivalries, or sheer talent. This list is one interpretation, celebrating players who have left an indelible mark on the sport.

15. Andy Murray

Andy Murray is a three-time Grand Slam champion who broke through in an era dominated by Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic. Known for his defensive skills and tactical brilliance, Murray excelled on grass, winning Wimbledon twice. He also claimed two Olympic gold medals, cementing his status as one of Britain’s greatest athletes. Murray’s resilience in overcoming injuries and returning to the tour is a testament to his determination. His contributions to tennis continue to inspire fans worldwide.

14. Mats Wilander

Mats Wilander’s seven Grand Slam titles across all surfaces highlight his adaptability and skill. Known for his tactical intelligence, Wilander excelled in grinding out long rallies. His 1988 season, where he won three Grand Slam titles, stands as one of the greatest single seasons in tennis history. Wilander’s calm demeanor belied his competitive spirit. His contributions to Swedish tennis inspired future generations of players.

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13. Boris Becker

Boris Becker burst onto the scene as a 17-year-old, winning Wimbledon in 1985. Known for his powerful serve and fearless net play, Becker won six Grand Slam titles. His rivalry with Edberg defined a generation of tennis. Becker’s charisma and passion for the game made him a fan favorite. Despite a tumultuous post-tennis life, his achievements on the court remain undisputed.

12. Stefan Edberg

Stefan Edberg’s six Grand Slam titles and impeccable serve-and-volley game make him a standout player in tennis history. His sportsmanship and elegance on the court earned him widespread admiration. Edberg excelled on grass and hard courts, winning Wimbledon and the US Open multiple times. His rivalry with Boris Becker produced some of the most memorable matches of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Post-retirement, Edberg has remained involved in tennis as a mentor and coach.

11. Ken Rosewall

Ken Rosewall captured eight Grand Slam titles and remained competitive for over two decades. Known for his finesse and backhand, Rosewall adapted seamlessly to the transition from amateur to professional tennis. His longevity was extraordinary, reaching Grand Slam finals into his 40s. Rosewall’s contributions to tennis are often overshadowed by his contemporaries, but his consistency remains legendary. He is celebrated as one of the sport’s most graceful players.

10. Ivan Lendl

Ivan Lendl revolutionized tennis with his power-based baseline game, winning eight Grand Slam titles in the process. Known for his intense work ethic, Lendl dominated the 1980s and inspired the next generation of players. His rivalries with McEnroe and Boris Becker were some of the most compelling in tennis history. Lendl’s dedication to fitness and strategy paved the way for the modern game. As a coach, he has continued to impact the sport, mentoring Andy Murray to Grand Slam success.

9. Jimmy Connors

Jimmy Connors won 109 titles, the most in tennis history, along with eight Grand Slam titles. His aggressive baseline play and never-give-up attitude defined his career. Connors was a showman, often feeding off the energy of the crowd to fuel his game. His longevity in the sport was remarkable, with a career spanning over two decades. Connors remains a symbol of resilience and passion for the game.

8. John McEnroe

John McEnroe’s seven Grand Slam titles and unparalleled net game make him one of the sport’s all-time greats. Known for his fiery temperament, McEnroe brought drama and intensity to tennis. His epic rivalries with Björn Borg and Jimmy Connors captivated fans and boosted the sport’s popularity. McEnroe’s unique style of play relied on precision, creativity, and impeccable volleying. Today, he remains an influential figure in tennis as a commentator and ambassador for the sport.

7. Andre Agassi

Andre Agassi is one of the few players to win all four Grand Slam titles, showcasing his versatility across surfaces. Known for his charisma and aggressive baseline play, Agassi became a fan favorite. He overcame early career struggles to achieve sustained success, winning eight Grand Slam titles. Agassi’s longevity and ability to reinvent himself helped him remain competitive into his 30s. His influence extended beyond the court through philanthropy and advocacy for education.

6. Björn Borg

Björn Borg with his wife — Fred Duval / Shutterstock.com

Björn Borg’s 11 Grand Slam titles, including six French Open and five consecutive Wimbledon titles, established him as a tennis icon. Known for his icy demeanor on the court, Borg combined physical endurance with mental fortitude. His ability to excel on both grass and clay made him one of the most versatile players of his time. Borg’s rivalry with John McEnroe brought unprecedented global attention to tennis. Despite retiring at just 26, his impact on the sport is immeasurable.

5. Pete Sampras

Pete Sampras reigned supreme in the 1990s, capturing 14 Grand Slam titles, including a record seven Wimbledon championships. Renowned for his explosive serve and crisp volleys, Sampras was almost unbeatable on grass courts. His rivalry with Andre Agassi added excitement to the sport during his prime. Sampras retired at the top of his game after winning the 2002 US Open, further solidifying his legendary status. His ability to perform in high-pressure moments remains a hallmark of his career.

4. Rod Laver

Rod Laver’s legacy is defined by his two calendar-year Grand Slams (1962 and 1969), a feat no other player has accomplished twice. Competing in both the amateur and professional eras, Laver won 11 Grand Slam titles and dominated opponents with his powerful left-handed strokes. His all-court game and adaptability set him apart in a rapidly evolving sport. Laver’s influence extended beyond his era, as modern players continue to look up to his accomplishments. His name is immortalized in the iconic Rod Laver Arena.

3. Rafael Nadal

Rafael Nadal’s 22 Grand Slam titles, including a mind-blowing 14 French Open wins, cement his place in tennis history. Known as “The King of Clay,” Nadal’s dominance on this surface is unparalleled. His powerful topspin forehand and unmatched fighting spirit have defined his career. Despite battling numerous injuries, Nadal has consistently returned to the top with unwavering determination. His rivalries with Federer and Djokovic are some of the greatest in sports.

2. Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic holds the record for the most Grand Slam titles in men’s tennis history, with 23 and counting. His mental toughness and versatility make him a force on all surfaces, from clay to grass to hard courts. Djokovic’s dominance is further reflected in his record-breaking 390+ weeks as world number one. He has a knack for coming back from the brink, making him one of the most resilient players ever. His relentless drive continues to set new benchmarks in the sport.

1. Roger Federer

Roger Federer is synonymous with elegance and dominance in tennis. With 20 Grand Slam titles and an unprecedented 237 consecutive weeks as world number one, his consistency is unmatched. Federer’s career spanned two decades, during which he won on every surface and mastered every aspect of the game. Known as “The Maestro,” his fluid playing style set a new standard for technical excellence. Beyond the court, Federer’s sportsmanship and popularity have elevated tennis to global prominence.