Tennis has changed a lot over the years, and nowhere is that more obvious than in the baseline grind. Today’s top players hit harder, move faster, and turn every rally into a test of stamina, strength, and laser-like precision.
While these legendary women dominated in their prime, the relentless pace and power of today’s baseline battles might’ve been a different story. From wooden rackets to lightning serves, these icons were great—but the modern game would’ve pushed them to their limits.
12. Tracy Austin
She was a teen prodigy with serious smarts on the court, but the physicality of today’s game would be a lot to handle. Extended baseline exchanges and big hitters could’ve worn her down over time.
11. Virginia Wade
Wade had a crisp serve and volley game that served her well, but the slower courts and deep rallies today might’ve exposed her limitations. It’s hard to chip and charge when everyone’s pounding groundstrokes from five feet behind the baseline.
10. Hana Mandlíková
She was incredibly talented and versatile, but her game leaned on variety more than raw baseline power. Against today’s big hitters, she might’ve struggled to keep up the pace.
9. Chris O’Neil
As the last Australian woman to win her home slam before Ash Barty, O’Neil’s finesse game might have trouble standing up to today’s relentless pace. A baseline slugfest wasn’t exactly her comfort zone.
8. Arantxa Sanchez Vicario
She was a human backboard in the ’90s, but modern players hit with way more weight and speed. Grinding out points like she used to might be physically unsustainable now.
7. Gabriela Sabatini
With her graceful style and strong one-handed backhand, she was a joy to watch. But in a world of brutal crosscourt exchanges, her artistry might’ve gotten overwhelmed.
6. Martina Hingis
Hingis was all about touch and tactics, thriving before the power era took full control. In today’s game, she’d be forced to counterpunch at a pace she didn’t often face in her heyday.
5. Conchita Martínez
Her heavy topspin and tactical mindset worked wonders in her era, but the spin-heavy baseline battles today require even more speed and endurance. She’d be stuck on defense a lot more often.
4. Helena Suková
Tall, skilled, and smart, Suková preferred to finish points at the net. That approach wouldn’t fly in an era where few approach shots go unpunished and baseline duels reign supreme.
3. Sue Barker
She had a solid game and a Roland Garros title to her name, but her methodical pace would’ve been a mismatch against today’s power-first players. Extended rallies could’ve pushed her way out of rhythm.
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2. Zina Garrison
Garrison was quick and crafty, relying on her agility and variety. But without a huge weapon from the baseline, she might’ve found herself constantly on the defensive.
Read more: 18 Old-School Tennis Stars Who’d Crumble Against Today’s Power Game
1. Evonne Goolagong
Graceful and fluid, Goolagong was one of the sport’s most elegant movers. But in today’s era of thunderous groundstrokes and baseline brawls, her finesse might’ve been overwhelmed by sheer firepower.
Read more: 15 Tennis Legends Who’d Struggle With Today’s Power Game
