The era of dominance in men’s tennis is now clearly approaching its end, with each Grand Slam event raising questions about legacy and history.
In 2022, Roger Federer became the first of the ATP Tour’s ‘big three’ to retire from the sport.
Rafael Nadal has been struggling with injuries throughout the 2023 season, while Novak Djokovic continues to excel, with the next generation of players still trying to catch up to him. However, both Nadal and Djokovic have not made it to the final of a Grand Slam event this year.
Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic have redefined what it means to be great in tennis. The debate over who is the greatest of them all has been ongoing and may soon come to a conclusion.
There is also a fascinating discussion about how they compare to the legends of previous eras. Here, The Sporting News ranks the top male players in tennis history.
MORE: Undesirable No.1: Why Novak Djokovic is the GOAT of men’s tennis, whether you like it or not
6. Jimmy Connors
Connors had a remarkable period of dominance in the 1970s, with his standout 1974 season being one of the great moments in tennis history. Despite being banned from the French Open due to his participation in the World Team Tennis league, Connors had a remarkable record that year, winning three Grand Slams. His success continued, especially on clay courts, where he excelled at the US Open.
Connors’ longevity in the sport, reaching the semifinals of the US Open at the age of 39, speaks to his incredible talent and dedication, resulting in a record 109 titles on the ATP Tour.
5. Bjorn Borg
Borg was a stylish and successful player, winning 11 Grand Slam titles, including back-to-back French Open and Wimbledon victories. His dominance in the late 1970s and early 1980s solidified his place among the tennis greats.
Despite facing tough competition from players like Connors and McEnroe, Borg’s achievements on the court remain unparalleled.
4. Rod Laver
Laver, a master of all court surfaces, achieved the incredible feat of winning all four Grand Slam titles in 1962 and again in 1969. His dominance in both the amateur and Open eras set him apart from his peers.
Laver’s 200 career titles and his unique calendar Grand Slam accomplishments make him one of the greatest players in tennis history.
3. Rafael Nadal
Nadal’s recent struggles with injuries have raised questions about his future in the sport. Despite this, his remarkable career, including multiple French Open and Wimbledon victories, cements his legacy as one of the all-time greats.
Nadal’s tenacity and skill on the court have inspired fans and players alike, solidifying his place among the tennis elite.
2. Roger Federer
Federer’s elegant playing style and numerous Grand Slam victories have made him a fan favorite and a legend in the sport. His record-breaking career, including multiple Wimbledon and Australian Open wins, places him among the greatest players in tennis history.
Federer’s decision to retire in 2022 marked the end of an era in men’s tennis, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
1. Novak Djokovic
Djokovic’s remarkable career, including multiple Grand Slam titles and a record-breaking number of weeks as the world number one, solidifies his place as the greatest male player in tennis history. His dominance on all court surfaces and his unwavering determination have set him apart from his peers.
Djokovic’s recent achievements, including winning the Australian Open and French Open, further highlight his status as a tennis legend.
378 – @DjokerNole today marks the 378th week over his career as the world’s number one tennis player, breaking Steffi Graf’s mark of 377 in combined male and female records. The next best in male rankings is Roger Federer at 310. Rarified. pic.twitter.com/QKoEtl4HIr