Stefanie Graf, a legendary figure in professional tennis, is celebrated for her remarkable career and unparalleled achievements on the court. With a total of 22 major singles titles, Graf ranks second in women’s tennis history for most Grand Slam victories since the Open Era began in 1968. Notably, in 1988, she made history by achieving the Golden Slam, winning all four major singles titles and the Olympic gold medal in a single calendar year, a feat unmatched by any player, male or female.
Graf’s dominance extended across all playing surfaces, showcasing her versatility and powerful forehand. She secured six French Open titles, seven Wimbledon titles, four Australian Open titles, and five US Open titles, making her the only player to achieve a Grand Slam on grass, clay, and hard courts. Graf’s incredible run included 31 major finals, with a record 13 consecutive finals reached from 1987 to 1990, and she won nine of those matches.
Her career was characterized by her fierce competitiveness and strategic gameplay, which helped shape the modern style of tennis. Graf held the world No. 1 ranking for a staggering 377 weeks, a record that stood for decades. Despite facing fierce rivals like Martina Navratilova and Monica Seles, she consistently emerged victorious, solidifying her status as one of the greatest players in tennis history.
Retiring in 1999, Graf left an indelible mark on the sport. Inducted into the Tennis Hall of Fame in 2004, she continues to inspire future generations of athletes. Her legacy is not just in her titles but in her influence on the game, making her an enduring icon in tennis.