The 25 Greatest Male Tennis Players in History – Ranked

September 10, 2025 Oliver Obel

Throughout the history of tennis, a select group of men have defined the sport with their talent, charisma, and achievements. From early pioneers to the modern “Big Three,” these players left an unforgettable legacy on the court. Here is a ranking of the 25 greatest male tennis players of all time.

25. Manuel Santana

Manuel Santana was Spain’s first true tennis hero, winning four Grand Slam titles. He brought tennis into the spotlight in his nation long before Nadal and Alcaraz. Santana remains a pioneer of the Spanish game.

24. Guillermo Vilas

Guillermo Vilas won four Grand Slam titles and was Argentina’s first true tennis superstar. Known for his fighting spirit, he paved the way for future South American champions. His legacy still resonates in his home country.

23. René Lacoste

Rene Lacoste — Leonard Zhukovsky / Shutterstock.com

René Lacoste was a French legend with seven Grand Slam titles. Beyond his tennis success, he became a fashion icon with the Lacoste brand. His influence stretched far beyond the court.

22. Stan Wawrinka

Stan Wawrinka earned three Grand Slam titles, often shining against the very best. His powerful one-handed backhand became one of the sport’s most iconic shots. Wawrinka’s ability to rise in big matches makes him a modern great.

21. Jannik Sinner

Jannik Sinner is one of the rising stars of modern tennis, already winning four Grand Slams. His fearless style and rapid development make him a player to watch. The Italian’s potential suggests an even greater future.

20. Andy Murray

Andy Murray battled through the toughest era in history, claiming three Grand Slam titles. Known for his resilience and tactical brilliance, he became a symbol of determination. His Wimbledon victories broke Britain’s long wait for a men’s champion.

19. Stefan Edberg

Stefan Edberg was a Swedish maestro with six Grand Slam titles to his name. Renowned for his graceful serve-and-volley game, he epitomized sportsmanship. His classic style continues to inspire players today.

18. Don Budge

Don Budge made history by becoming the first man to complete a calendar Grand Slam in 1938. He won six majors in total, setting standards for generations to come. His place in tennis history is forever secured.

17. Mats Wilander

Mats Wilander captured seven Grand Slam titles during the 1980s. His versatility allowed him to win on all surfaces, making him one of Sweden’s greatest players. His intelligence and tactical play defined his era.

16. Carlos Alcaraz

A modern sensation, Carlos Alcaraz has already claimed six Grand Slam titles by his early 20s. Known for his explosive style and mental toughness, he looks set to dominate the future. Many see him as the rightful heir to the “Big Three.”

15. Boris Becker

Boris Becker burst onto the scene by winning Wimbledon at just 17 years old. With six Grand Slam titles, the German superstar became one of the game’s most exciting talents. His aggressive serve-and-volley style left a lasting mark on the sport.

14. Ken Rosewall

Ken Rosewall earned eight Grand Slam titles and was admired for his consistency over decades. His precise shots and adaptability made him competitive well into his late 30s. Rosewall remains a symbol of longevity in men’s tennis.

13. Bill Tilden

Bill Tilden was a pioneer of modern tennis, winning 10 Grand Slam titles in the early 20th century. He combined power with strategy, dominating his era like few others. Despite playing in a different time, his impact on the sport remains undeniable.

12. Fred Perry

Fred Perry became a national hero in Britain by winning eight Grand Slam titles. He was the first player to capture a career Grand Slam, triumphing at all four majors. His legacy extends off the court, with his name still synonymous with tennis culture.

11. Roy Emerson

With 12 Grand Slam titles, Roy Emerson was one of Australia’s greatest players. He excelled across all surfaces and contributed to his nation’s golden era in tennis. His longevity and versatility make him a key figure in the sport’s history.

10. Andre Agassi

Andre Agassi’s two-decade career brought eight Grand Slam titles and an Olympic gold medal. Known for his charisma and adaptability, he achieved victories across all surfaces. His Wimbledon triumph in 1992 remains one of his most celebrated achievements.

9. Jimmy Connors

Jimmy Connors remains an icon of the 1970s, winning eight Grand Slam titles and a record number of ATP Tour trophies. His fiery competitiveness and never-say-die attitude made him a fan favorite. Connors’ dominance at the US Open, with five titles, cemented his legacy.

8. Ivan Lendl

Ivan Lendl dominated the 1980s with eight Grand Slam titles and 94 career trophies. Known for his powerful serve and baseline play, he was nearly unbeatable at his peak. His only missing achievement was Wimbledon, but his consistency made him one of the all-time greats.

7. John McEnroe

One of the sport’s most charismatic figures, John McEnroe combined brilliance with fiery personality. He captured seven Grand Slam titles, excelling at Wimbledon and the US Open. McEnroe’s flair and drama made him unforgettable both on and off the court.

6. Björn Borg

Björn Borg’s career was brief but extraordinary, producing 11 Grand Slam titles before retiring at just 26. Known for his ice-cool demeanor, he thrived on both clay and grass, winning six French Opens and five Wimbledons. His rivalry with John McEnroe remains one of the most celebrated in tennis history.

5. Rod Laver

Rod Laver holds a unique place in tennis history, winning Grand Slams in both the amateur and Open eras. With 11 major titles and more than 200 career victories, the Australian is a true pioneer. Many argue that in today’s era, Laver’s achievements would look even more impressive.

4. Pete Sampras

Pete Sampras dominated the 1990s, retiring with 14 Grand Slams and a reputation as the best of his era. While he never claimed the French Open, his incredible serve-and-volley game set him apart. His legendary battles with Andre Agassi remain some of the sport’s most iconic rivalries.

3. Rafael Nadal

The “King of Clay” Rafael Nadal amassed 22 Grand Slam titles, with an astonishing 14 coming at Roland Garros. His fighting spirit, physical dominance, and humility won the hearts of fans around the globe. Nadal’s impact on tennis goes beyond numbers—he embodied passion and resilience.

2. Roger Federer

Known as the “gentleman of tennis,” Roger Federer redefined elegance on the court. With 20 Grand Slams, including a record eight at Wimbledon, the Swiss maestro made tennis look effortless. His grace, consistency, and role in elevating global interest in the sport secure his place at number two.

1. Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic tops the list with an unmatched 24 Grand Slam titles and an Olympic gold medal. The Serbian icon has mastered every surface and continues to compete at the highest level well into his 30s. His dominance, longevity, and influence on the game make him the greatest male tennis player in history.