Left-handed tennis players have made significant contributions to the sport, often using their unique playing style to gain an advantage over their opponents.
While the tennis world has seen many right-handed champions, left-handed players have carved out their own legacy, orchestrating some of the most memorable moments in tennis history. In this list, we highlight the top 15 greatest left-handed tennis players who have left an impact on the game with their skill, tenacity, and distinctive style.
15. Jürgen Melzer
The Austrian left-hander reached a career-high singles ranking of world No. 8 in 2011. Melzer’s most notable achievement was reaching the 2010 French Open semifinals, where he famously defeated Novak Djokovic from two sets down. He won 5 singles titles and had greater success in doubles, claiming two Grand Slam men’s doubles titles.
14. Henri Leconte
The flamboyant Frenchman reached world No. 5 in singles and No. 6 in doubles. Leconte won 9 singles titles, including the 1988 French Open final. His Davis Cup heroics in 1991, defeating Pete Sampras, helped France clinch their first title in 59 years. Leconte’s entertaining style and powerful left-handed serve made him a fan favorite.
13. Marcelo Ríos
The enigmatic Chilean became the first South American to reach world No. 1 in 1998. Known for his exceptional shot-making and court coverage, Ríos won 18 ATP titles, including 5 Masters 1000 events. Despite never winning a Grand Slam, his natural talent and unorthodox style left an indelible mark on the sport.
12. Thomas Muster
Known as the “King of Clay,” Thomas Muster dominated the 1990s with his relentless baseline game. He won 40 of his 44 titles on clay, including the 1995 French Open. Muster’s incredible comeback from a career-threatening knee injury to reach World No. 1 in 1996 solidifies his legacy as one of the greatest left-handed players in tennis history.
11. Angelique Kerber
Angelique Kerber’s powerful left-handed game propelled her to three Grand Slam titles and world No. 1 ranking. Known for her consistency and counterpunching style, Kerber won 14 career singles titles across all surfaces. She’s one of only two players to defeat Serena Williams in multiple Grand Slam finals, showcasing her competitive prowess.
10. Tony Roche
Tony Roche, an Australian tennis legend, reached World No. 2 in 1969. He won the 1966 French Championships and excelled in doubles, claiming 15 Grand Slam titles. After retiring, Roche became a renowned coach, mentoring champions like Ivan Lendl, Patrick Rafter, and Roger Federer.
9. Petra Kvitová
Petra Kvitová, a powerful left-handed player from the Czech Republic, has won 31 career singles titles, including two Wimbledon championships. Known for her aggressive groundstrokes and variety, she reached a career-high ranking of world No. 2 in 2011. Kvitová’s achievements also include an Olympic bronze medal and six Fed Cup titles.
8. Goran Ivanišević
Goran Ivanišević, known for his powerful serve, won 22 ATP singles titles, including a memorable Wimbledon victory in 2001 as a wildcard. The Croatian reached a career-high world No. 2 ranking and held the record for most aces at Wimbledon (1,377) for nearly two decades. Ivanišević’s left-handed serve made him a formidable opponent on all surfaces.
7. Guillermo Vilas
Vilas dominated the 1970s with his powerful topspin groundstrokes. The Argentine won four Grand Slam titles and held the record for most clay-court victories (659) until Rafael Nadal surpassed it. His remarkable 1977 season saw him win 16 ATP singles titles, a record that still stands today.
6. Monica Seles
Monica Seles dominated women’s tennis in the early 1990s, winning nine Grand Slam titles before age 20. Her powerful two-handed strokes from both sides revolutionized the game. Despite a tragic on-court stabbing in 1993, Seles returned to win her final major at the 1996 Australian Open.
5. Martina Navratilova
Navratilova dominated women’s tennis for decades, winning an unprecedented 59 Grand Slam titles. Her 9 Wimbledon singles championships remain a record. Known for her aggressive play and fitness, she revolutionized the women’s game. Navratilova’s career spanned four decades, showcasing her longevity and adaptability in the sport.
4. Jimmy Connors
Jimmy Connors dominated tennis in the 1970s and early 1980s, winning 8 Grand Slam singles titles. His fierce competitiveness and two-handed backhand revolutionized the game. Connors held the world No. 1 ranking for a record 160 consecutive weeks and won an unprecedented 109 singles titles in his career.
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3. John McEnroe
John McEnroe dominated tennis from 1981 to 1984, winning 7 Grand Slam singles titles. Known for his serve-and-volley style and fiery temperament, he captured 77 singles and 78 doubles titles. McEnroe’s legendary rivalry with Björn Borg produced some of tennis’ most memorable matches.
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2. Rod Laver
Rod Laver, the only player to achieve two Calendar Grand Slams, dominated tennis in the 1960s. The Australian lefty won 11 Grand Slam singles titles and 8 Pro majors. Laver’s versatile game and powerful forehand made him a formidable opponent on all surfaces, earning him the nickname “The Rocket.”
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1. Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal tops the list of greatest left-handed tennis players. With 22 Grand Slam titles, including a record 14 French Open victories, Nadal dominated the sport for over two decades. His powerful topspin forehand and unmatched clay court prowess solidify his status as the best lefty in tennis history.
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