The green grass, the hum of the crowd and the pop of the champagne; there’s nothing quite like Wimbledon. It’s the greatest tournament in tennis, but who is the best to ever win it? Performing on grass is often a barometer of a player’s quality and can separate the great players from the legendary ones. There have been some sensational champions across the years, from both the men’s and women’s draws.
Record-Breaking Champions
Roger Federer holds the record for the most men's singles titles in the Open Era, with eight victories on the famous green grass. On the women's side, Martina Navratilova went one step further, lifting a record nine titles in the Open Era, giving the Prague-born star a fantastic case to be named as Wimbledon’s greatest-ever champion.
Other Notable Contenders
Other notable mentions include Novak Djokovic and Boris Becker, who have both dazzled the courts at SW19. Meanwhile, Serena Williams, who made a triumphant return to the Championships this year, cannot go without a mention. Williams won seven singles titles at the All England Club and has hinted that grass is her favourite surface.
Players' Own Perspectives
Even the stars themselves have their own favourites. Djokovic has waxed lyrical about Federer’s ability on grass. Speaking last year, the Serb remarked: “First of all, playing against Roger [Federer] on any surface, but on grass, in a final, it’s a lot of constant pressure because he stays close to the line. Regardless of who he’s playing against, whether the serve is coming 150 miles an hour or as mine, 120, he’s there. He blocks the shots very well. He anticipates very well. He’s so talented. He’s got a perfect game for this surface.”
Williams has also shared her love for the surface, saying: “I love the grass. What I love most about it is just the cleanness of it. I just think it’s so chic and so crisp. That’s a good word: crisp. I’m kind of excited to switch surfaces, but historically I have done pretty well on grass.”
Cast Your Vote
But the final decision is up to you. Get involved in our poll where you can have your say on who is the best-ever player to win at Wimbledon. The truth is, there isn’t really a right answer. Tennis fans will no doubt debate each selection while making their case for who they believe to be the number one option.
