Confidence is a key ingredient in achieving greatness in tennis, but some players take it to an even higher level. Whether it’s trash talk, over-the-top celebrations, or constant clashes with officials and fans, these stars had no problem letting the world know just how good they thought they were.
From cold stares at the net to press conference mic drops, arrogance has always had a place on the court. Let’s take a look at the tennis legends and loudmouths who made headlines as much for their egos as their trophies.
12. Novak Djokovic
Djokovic may be one of the greatest ever, but humility hasn’t always been his strong suit. From imitating opponents to clashing with crowds, his confidence often teeters on the edge of arrogance.
11. Fabio Fognini
Fognini’s fiery temper and constant complaints made him one of the most unpredictable players on tour. He strutted around the court like he owned the place, win or lose.
10. Jelena Dokic
She was undoubtedly talented, but her dismissive attitude rubbed many people the wrong way. Her on-court demeanor often gave off a “don’t you know who I am?” vibe.
9. Daniil Medvedev
Medvedev plays like he’s two steps ahead and talks like he knows it. His sarcastic interviews and crowd taunts have earned him as many boos as cheers.
8. Anna Kournikova
Despite never winning a singles title, Kournikova carried herself like a superstar from day one. Her self-assurance was sky-high, whether it was on the court or the red carpet.
7. Andy Roddick
Roddick could be as cocky as they come, with a quick wit that often turned into condescension. He didn’t just want to beat you—he wanted to let you know he beat you.
6. Serena Williams
Serena backed up her bravado with unmatched dominance, but her confidence could be overwhelming. Whether it was smashing rackets or staring down opponents, she made it clear she was the queen of the court.
5. Bernard Tomic
Tomic seemed to care more about flaunting his lifestyle than his actual game. His blatant disregard for fans and his lack of effort made his arrogance stand out in the worst way.
4. Nick Kyrgios
Kyrgios never met a controversy he didn’t like, or a mic he didn’t want to talk into. His blend of talent and trash talk created a persona that thrived on arrogance.
3. Ilie Năstase
Năstase was the original tennis bad boy, mixing brilliance with blatant disrespect. He treated matches like a personal theater, and he was always the star.
Read More: 15 Players Who Were Born to Be Tennis Villains
2. Martina Hingis
Hingis dominated at a young age and made sure everyone knew it. Her lack of humility, even in defeat, turned many fans off despite her skill.
Read More: 15 Tennis Players Who Treated Every Match Like a One-Person Show
1. John McEnroe
No one wore arrogance like McEnroe. From screaming at umpires to acting like the most intelligent guy in the room, he was tennis’s ultimate egomaniac—and he never really apologized for it.
Read More: The 15 Most Overrated Tennis Stars of All Time
