Wimbledon: 5 greatest players of all time
What's the story
No other tennis tournament captures the imagination of the world like Wimbledon. Started way back in 1877, Wimbledon is the oldest Grand Slam in the world. Dressed in all-white, the men's and women's singles are played by some of the world's best. As we approach the tail-end of the 2018 edition, let us take a look at the greatest male tennis icons.
Rafa
Spain's raging bull: Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal is an icon of the sport and his exploits at the Wimbledon Center Court are stories worth telling our kids. The 'King of Clay Court' clinched his first Wimbledon title, in 2008, as he defeated Federer, in the greatest grass-court match. He repeated the feat in 2010 when he overcame Berdych in straight sets. Is the third title on the cards?
Rod Laver
Australian Rocket: Rod Laver
The 1938 born Australian, Rod Laver, was world number 1 from 1964 to 1970. His unbelievable haul of 200 singles trophies is the best ever in the sport. He won the Wimbledon title four times. Further, Laver is the only player to achieve the calendar-year Grand Slam twice. Considered one of the greatest ever, he has a tennis arena named after him in Melbourne.
Borg
German Ice Man: Björn Borg
Bjorn Borg was a beast at Wimbledon, and his records prove his iconic status. For someone who retired at the age of 26, he has won an astounding number of trophies. The biggest achievement of his career is winning five consecutive Wimbledon honor as well as six French Opens. Before the Nadal-Federer era, his rivalry with John McEnroe was widely considered as the greatest.
Pete Sampras
American Pistol: Pete Sampras
Pete Sampras is one of the most successful Wimbledon champions of all time. He has won the coveted prize 7 times. Nicknamed 'Pistol Pete' for his powerful serves, he retired from the sport after winning the 2002 US Open. In his career, he clinched 14 Grand Slams. In 2007, this tennis legend was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
GOAT
Greatest of all time: Roger Federer
With 20 Grand Slams under his belt, Roger Federer is arguably the best ever to hold a tennis racquet. He also has the highest number of Wimbledon titles (8). Federer's versatility, footwork and efficiency are unparalleled, not only in the modern era but in the history of tennis. He holds several records on grass court including the longest winning streak (65 consecutive matches).