She won seven grand slams and an Olympic gold medal in a hugely competitive era in the womens game. Graf: 22 Grand Slam titles in singles, 1 in doubles, Williams: 23 Grand Slam titles in singles, 14 in doubles. Graf had won the pairs earlier encounter in Sydney that year, but it was Williams who struck early and took the first set 6-3. 1 is the same. With that in mind, we are spending the Wimbledon fortnight debating which of the greats is the greatest of them all. As such a young player, who won eight grand slam titles as a teenager, she showed such mental strength to win matches. Read more aboutour 50th Anniversary Celebrationandget caught up on all the matches so far. They have had personal difficulties off the court, and they have had their moments with the press. The German responded in typical fashion and fought her way back into the contest by taking the second set by the same scoreline. Both Graf and Agassi became parents just a few days after they were married with the birth of Jaden. They have racked up numerous titles, and they have found that extra gear when a Grand Slam title is on the line. All trademarks belong to their respective owners. Grafs all-around tennis game and achievements cement her as the reigning womens tennis GOAT. Both dominated opponents with power and movement. 1, including 186 consecutive weeks, Williams: 319 weeks ranked No. The teenager followed this victory with strong wins over Frances Mary Pierce and Sandrine Testud in the quarter-finals and semi-finals respectively. 1 for But few, if any, have gone toe to toe with Serena Williams for long and lived to tell about it. These include some of the greatest ever to play the game, like (then known as the Evert Cup) by stunning Steffi Graf 6-3, 3-6, 7-5 in the title clash. She had lost her last two matches against Navratilova the Wimbledon and US Open finals of 1987 and this was her first meeting against her fellow GOAT candidate during her legendary Golden Slam-winning year. Of all the tragicparts of the Seles incident, this one ranks low, but its still important in the telling of tennis history: If the crazed Graf fan who stabbed Seles wanted his favorite player to return to glory, his actions, however sickening and criminal, worked. 
With that in mind, we are spending the Wimbledon fortnight debating which of the greats is the greatest of them all. Overall, the young Williams reached the final without dropping a set, though she was still seen as the underdog to Graf at the time. . Then, when Seles stops playing, the Graf wins start back up. Seles took the initiative in every single match she played, hitting the lines and depriving her opponents of time. Williams has had run-ins with tennis officials. My father has taught me that if you really do want to reach your goals, you can't spend any time worrying about whether you're going to win or lose. Facebook; Twitter; Facebook Messenger; Pinterest; Email; print; Serena Williams and Steffi Graf played twice in 1999. Another legendary tennis player, Evert, said, Steffi Graf is the best all-around player. He has reported on events including the Tokyo Olympics, ICC Womens T20 World Cup and Wimbledon, while also getting the chance to cover the Euro 2022 final at Wembley. She also showed her fighting qualities in her epic victory against Jennifer Capriati in the US Open semi-final, when she overcame cramp and exhaustion to win not only that match but the title. Luckily, Grafs Golden Slam, albeit impressive, was just one of the many accomplishments she achieved. Steffi could go toe to toe or forehand to forehand with anyone, Pam Shriver says. Without her pioneering spirit, there would be no equality in sports. In fact, Jaden is a potential major league pitching prospect who committed to play at the University of Southern California. Then again, Serena can make the point moot with four more Slam wins. Graf: 85-15 on grass (.850 winning percentage), Williams: 107-14 on grass (.884 winning percentage). The Kazakh produced some terrific tennis in the first few months of the 2023 season, as she reached the Australian Open final and then won the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells by beating Aryna Sabalenka 7-6(11), 6-4 in the final. The U.S. Open and Australian Open play on hard surfaces. The similarities and differences between Steffi Graf in 1988 and Serena Williams in 2015. During a changeover, she called Ramos "a liar," and he awarded a game to Osaka. In a 2009 U.S. Open semifinal match against Kim Clijsters, Clijsters frustrated Williams to the point where Williams received a warning for racquet abuse and later was called for a foot fault, which set her off, telling a line judge that she was going to "shove this ball down your f---ing throat." Yet she still won six French Open titles, reached the final nine times and carried a 90 percent success rate with a record of 273-30. Williams: One of the most powerful forehands ever, returns and forceful groundstrokes.
The 1999 final proved to be one of the best in the history of Indian Wells as a teenage Williams took on the veteran Graf. Showing their Slams by age helped give insight into whether one (Djokovic) could break the record of another (Federer). 'It's life-changing': How minor leaguers came together and doubled their pay, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Along with her sister Venus, Serena has had to deal with obstacles aimed at them from various bodies that control the sport, such as rules about how they dress and how they do their hair. You have to admire attempting this juggling act, and its not going to last forever. Twice in fact and both times in 1999.
Graf stayed composed to fends them off and the battle was raging on, with Serena landing a backhand down the line win er in game 10 to level the score at 5-5. Sign up for the For The Win newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox every morning. She also has endorsed Aston Martin, Pepsi, Berlei bras, Puma, Nike, Audemars Piguet, Delta Airlines, Chase Bank, and Mission Athletecare.
Her impressive forehand shot nicknamed the Fraulein Forehand helped her be the No. She smacked forehand winners from everywhere, retrieved balls that were impossible to get, threw down second-serve aces, and most thrillingly of all displayed rare audacity on her backhand side in order to go for topspin winners.
I just am still that girl with the racquet and a dream, and Im just playing for that.. Serena Williams competed in four Olympics, representing the United States in the 2000 Sydney Games, 2008 Beijing Games, 2012 London Games and 2016 Rio De Janeiro Games. Her range of volleys was exceptional as was her determination to play her game in her style and impose her will upon her opponent and upon the court, no matter which surface it was. She was assessed a point penalty, which just happened to be match point. Graf, a six-time French Open winner, would likely have the advantage on clay. Rebecca Joyce. Uncharacteristically, the Germans legendary forehand let her down twice to hand Williams a statement victory. She has been world No 1 for 319 weeks. As the pair met in the final of Indian Wells, known then as the Evert Cup, there was only one favourite on paper. Graf: Great footwork, strong forehand, aggressive along the baseline, versatile on any surface. Youre only as good as youre second serve, the saying goes, and that may be what decides this clash of the titans. Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner to play exhibition match in Mexico during offseason, Carlos Alcaraz is no longer the youngest tennis player in the top 100, Daniil Medvedev opens up on 'hard to digest' reception against Rafael Nadal, Coach announces split with Cori Gauff due to 'personal reasons', Monte Carlo Masters releases statement on Rafael Nadal withdrawal, Carlos Alcaraz challenges Novak Djokovic: "I'll take back the number one", Patrick Mouratoglou: It's impossible not to say that Novak Djokovic is still the best, Fabio Fognini: "It's the worst moment of my career", Carlos Alcaraz follows Rafael Nadal and withdraws from notable event. She returned the ball like a human backboard, manipulating her opponent around the court. "In Paris and Berlin, I indeed did not just lose against Monica Seles. WebSerena Williams. 1, including 186 consecutive weeks. Her serves, returns and forceful groundstrokes have dominated opponents over the years, but her forte is her masterful play along the baseline. Later, Graf was coached for five years by Pavel Slozil, and Heinz Gunthardt for over seven years until Graf retired in 1999. Recording artist Common, aka Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr., (2007-10) Actor and musician Jackie Long (2007-08). Both dominated opponents with power and movement. Edberg was at his best during the late 1980s and early 1990s. During their heydays, Graf was the best player in tennis toward the end of the 1980s and the 1990s, while Williams has controlled things from the start of the 21st century. Graf was chasing her third title in California. Serena Williams has been dominant for such a long period of time. . Twice in fact and both times in 1999. She has been world No 1 for 319 weeks. She has risen from humble beginnings in Compton a world away from the privileged start of many tennis players and has overcome overt racism to become an active voice for equal rights for women and men on and off the court. Her trademarks the footwork of a ballerina, the speed of a gazelle, the impeccably carved backhand slice and that monstrous bazooka of a forehand coalesced into a rare brand of athleticism, as beautiful as it was brutal. #steffigraf #steffi #graf #goat #tennis #tennisplayer #grandslam #goldenslam #germany #forehand #numberone #sport #fitness #wta #tennislife #athlete #tennisplayers #champion #frauleinforehand #goat?#germantennis, A post shared by Steffi Graf Fan Page ? Graf was 22-9 in major finals; Serena is 19-4. Who would you want to play for your life, in the biggest of all matches? In fact, they did better than any woman who has played professional tennis not named Margaret Court. If you string together the number of weeks Graf held the No. Starting next week at the US Open, Williams will be trying to match Graf's calendar Grand Slam from 1988 and also pull even in the majors department with 22. Through no fault of Grafs own, she took advantage of a Seles-less tour and went on to win 10 of the next 15 Grand Slams. ", Elina Svitolina: Ska is more looking like me and she is really, really quiet, Holger Rune reveals thing he immediately noticed during practice with Serena Williams, Big comeback in the making Naomi Osaka aims at least eight more Grand Slams, Garbine Muguruza, the dark period is endless, Charleston Open: Jessica Pegula, Daria Kasatkina & Belinda Bencic enter pre-quarters, "Every wife is important," when Roger Federer praised his wife Mirka, Iga Swiatek: Tennis could have sent a strong message by banning Russians, Belarusians. I cherish every moment. Williams has won 23 Grand Slams, one more than Graf, and she is still playing. The character and poise were there from the start. . At another point, Williams halted the match to confer and seek support from tournament referee Brian Earley and the WTA supervisor Donna Kelso. In March 1999, Serena Williams had yet to win a major title. Please check your email for a confirmation.
The same year Graf won her first major in France, she won the other three Grand Slam titles and an Olympic gold medal. But the most fascinating timeline belongs to Graf. How dominant was each player? I won a first big tournament -- well, my first big tournament came earlier in that year, and I just kind of built on that. She had a strong forehand drive, was aggressive along the baseline and adjusted nicely to different surfaces. That year, he also triumphed at the Indian Wells Masters (then known as the Newsweek Champions Cup) and when he reached the Miami Open (then called the Lipton International Players Championships) final, it seemed like he would become the first tennis player to win the Sunshine Double. Serena Williams vs. Steffi Graf. (Seles assailant said he stabbed her to help Graf reach No. Graf survived a challenging eighth game but Serena sealed the set with another good hold a few minutes later for the third set. Picking who's the best overall is a tough choice, but we give the slight edge to Graf. Steffi Graf competed in two Olympics, representing West Germany in the 1988 Seoul Games and Germany in the 1992 Barcelona Games. Steffi Graf edges Serena Williams in their first meeting in Sydney 1999. Graf used a one-handed slice to set up her forehand, while Williams two-hander is every bit as lethal as a weapon as her forehand. Williams leads the all-time list of WTA hardcourt victories with 505, rank Graf ranks just outside the top 10 with 343 victories. Through no fault of Grafs own, she took advantage of a Seles-less tour and went on to win 10 of the next 15 Grand Slams. But Im still training to win Grand Slams and sometimes I have to make hard choices about how I spend my time.". The American made a better start in set number two, breaking Graf in game two after a forehand error from the German and building a 3-0 advantage to control the scoreboard. Meanwhile, Williams won her first major at the US Open at the end of 1999 and now boasts 23 Slams in total one more than Graf has in her own trophy cabinet. Although Steffi was cleared of any wrongdoing, people began to notice that her game was affected by the scandal.
German race car driver Michael Bartels (1992-99). Lets face it, despite the number of dates they had with an assortment of men, they both wound up happily married and raising children with their respective husbands. That last, dramatic French Open triumph against Hingis in 1999 is up there for the unexpected delight of it all. Serena Williams vs. Steffi Graf. And, in Grafs case, focus on the goals and forget about winning or losing. And that brief gapin Grafs dominance , when a carefree Monica Seles was the greatest player in the world (and therefore, better than Graf in her prime), is why Steffi Graf cant be considered the best ever even though she had as many Slams at 26 as Serena does now, at 33. Copyright 2023 Endgame360 Inc. All Rights Reserved. Maria Sharapova has won almost everything in her singles tennis career, but she failed to capture the "Sunshine Double" crown on not one but two separate occasions. Serena was there to follow her, firing a forehand winner to make a hold in game four, staying in touch with her rival and waiting for a chance on the return.
", Williams:"I really think a champion is defined not by their wins but by how they can recover when they fall.". Serena Williams has played pro tennis for 20 years and is still an incredible competitor. Williams and Graf have another thing in common they both strive to be hands-on parents.
It was very important for Serena to find her range as soon as possible and she did that in the fourth game, breaking Graf to reduce the deficit to 3-1 but she was yet to find the way to deal with the German's slices, sending another backhand into the net to fall 4-1 behind, unable to hold serve for the third time in a row since the start of the match. Justine Henin kisses the French Open trophy in 2003. But how did Graf get there? The days are long and the nights are warm but, sadly, we will have to wait until next year to see the great players of our time compete at Wimbledon.
One of Grafs rare dealings with judges came in 1993 at Wimbledon in her first-round match against Australian Kirrily Sharpe where she was pleading for the judge to act on a fan who was having an exchange with her, and who we later learned had stalked Graf all over Europe and came a few months after Monica Seles was stabbed during a match in Hamburg. The youngster had the upper hand from the baseline now and Graf lost the momentum on the return, allowing Serena to hold in game five for a 4-1 and again in the seventh game thanks to a service winner from Williams. Thanks to everyone who took part. Meanwhile, the great Steffi Graf had 21 to her name.
Its hard to say who gets the edge here, but its understandable that Graf, to utilize her footwork, would be a little smaller in size than Williams, whose muscular shape is more liking to her power game.
A year earlier, Serena was the semi-finalist in Sydney and she proved her class against Steffi again, forcing the great opponent to give her best and sending the clear message it will not be a very long before she would become the leader of the pack on the Tour.
This is where we enter Serena Williams wheelhouse. They are so similar that their personal record for most consecutive weeks at No. Logan Paul sees gold? Martina won more on fast courts, and I won more on slow courts, but Steffi came along and won more titles on both surfaces.. German legend Steffi Graf is widely recognised as one of the greatest-ever tennis players in history.. She won 22 Grand Slam titles in a 16-year professional career, the second-most behind Serena Williams (23) since the start of the Open Era in 1968, and the third-most in history behind Margaret Court (24).. Steffi Graf was ranked world No.
And soon. 1 one week into the season? At the start of the year in Sydney, a 29-year-old Graf beat a 17-year-old Williams; that spring, Williams reversed the result over three sets in Indian Wells. Tennis player Andre Agassi (1999-present), who she married in October 2001. Thats the number Serena will be chasing for the rest of her career. Both matches went to three sets. WebRecent Steffi Graf / Serena Williams News. Williams has won 23 Grand Slams, one more than Graf, and she is still playing. Its clear that Williams has possessed more marketing power than Graf. Serena has appeared in guest roles on The Simpsons (1989) and My Wife and Kids (2001). It was a great year for me." However, Hingis exacted revenge in the Miami Open (then known as the Ericsson Open). She was born in Saginaw, Michigan in 1981, to Richard and Oracene Williams. MLB Power Rankings: Who's No. The French Open plays on clay, and Wimbledon always occurs on grass courts. In 2006, Sharapova defeated compatriot Elena Dementieva in the final at Indian Wells. However, I think you must make a legitimate case as to why you think that. While she had taken time away from the game prior to 1999, Graf was still seeded fifth for Indian Wells and was regarded as one of the best players in the world. The slice would make it very for hard for Serena to play her game against Steffi, Knowles says. Despite breaking Grafs record, Williams does not consider herself the GOAT. Domien Takx. WebRecent Steffi Graf / Serena Williams News. Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian (2016-present), who she married in November 2017. Graf also had an up-and-down relationship with the media during her career, especially when she struggled in 1990 and her personal problems became public. This week our writers have made the case for. In their prime, they ruled their eras with their own dominating styles. Earlier that year, Williams also won the tournament in Indian Wells (then known as the Evert Cup) by stunning Steffi Graf 6-3, 3-6, 7-5 in the title clash. Serena Williams vs Ajla Tomljanovic US Open 2022 Preview and Prediction .
Each surface has a different speed and ball trajectory. She is known for losing her cool and periods of inconsistency. In March 1999, Serena Williams had yet to win a major title. 1 spot, it would equal over seven years.
She dominated on clay, popularising the two-handed backhand and the idea of staying on the baseline. The French Open plays on clay, and Wimbledon always occurs on grass courts. In their prime, they ruled their eras with their own dominating styles. Graf showed us perhaps the greatest footwork of all time. Then a reader asked if we could do the same thing forthe womens game. Graf, who had more Slams at age 20 than Evert, Navratilova and Williams combined, would win just two of her next 12 majors after winning eight of nine. Steffi Graf and Serena Williams always strived to get better, even as they sat on the throne as the greatest players in their prime. "Yes, I also lost the two finals against the German press.". The similarities and differences between Steffi Graf in 1988 and Serena Williams in 2015. The triumph made her a possible candidate to win the Sunshine Double. Why American legend doesn't celebrate birthdays or Christmas, Be the first one to comment on this story. When it comes to being married with children, both Graf and Williams are prospering. Despite their differences, their careers, on and off the court, share some uncanny similarities. Grit and determination defined Seles along with her trademark grunt. The 1999 season was a breakthrough one for Serena Williams. Graf: 343-40 on hardcourt (.896 winning percentage), Williams: 505-85 on hardcourt (.856 winning percentage). There were so many great Graf matches. In a press conference, Serena Williams recalled her 1999 season when she faced a 23-time Grand Slam winner like Steffi Graf. There was a lot on the line. The reason is her versatility as a player, since she could succeed on any surface thanks to remarkable footwork and a deadly forehand. However, Grafs ability to adapt her game at a high level to a variety of conditions, and the amazing number of victories she achieved, shows why she belongs in the discussion of best womens tennis player ever. Steffi Graf and Serena Williams are two of the greatest womens tennis players ever. Graf won the gold medal in Seoul and silver in Barcelona. Graf: 1 singles gold medal, 1 singles silver medal, Williams: 1 singles gold medal, 3 doubles gold medals. As far as Grand Slam events on hardcourt, Williams has the most wins at the Australian Open (7) and the U.S. Open (6, tied with Chris Evert), while Graf is second all-time in Australia (4) and third at the U.S. Open (5). When it comes to Grand Slams, Steffi Graf and Serena Williams both knew how to step up their games in big matches. In a press conference, Serena Williams recalled her 1999 season when she faced a 23-time Grand Slam winner like Steffi Graf. She loses a match, she doesnt say its my fault even though I think its my fault, too. A great ambassador to the game and her country.
She repelled two match points but the third one was the lucky one for Steffi, earning the crucial break after a backhand error from Serena to edge the youngster and reach the quarters, mighty relieved that she managed to stay undefeated against the upcoming star. But Williams has been more dominant against opponents on grass and an eighth Wimbledon title is a real possibility.
This week our writers have made the case for Steffi Graf, Chris Evert, Serena Williams, Martina Navratilova and Monica Seles.
Having obtained a master's degree in Broadcast Journalism from City University, London, Olly spent time at BBC London and talkSPORT, before transitioning to editorial.
However, prize money for tennis tournaments over the past decade or so has increased, so while Williams and Graf have had near equal success, the price of winning in the 21st century has been extra kind to Williams. Now its time to hear from our readers. But since Williams is still playing, Courts record of 24 Grand Slams could fall. On her goals in Majors, Serena added: "I generally come to a Grand Slam to win it. Edge: Williams for most tirades, but not to discount Grafs fears.
Henry Haynes.
German legend Steffi Graf is widely recognised as one of the greatest-ever tennis players in history.. She won 22 Grand Slam titles in a 16-year professional career, the second-most behind Serena Williams (23) since the start of the Open Era in 1968, and the third-most in history behind Margaret Court (24).. Steffi Graf was ranked world No.
Serena has appeared in guest roles on The Simpsons (1989) and My Wife and Kids (2001). That would seem to give Williams an advantage, but Mark Knowles, for one, thinks the edge goes to Graf because of the low, skidding shots she can produce with her slice. (The highlighted box shows when sheretired, one Slam into her age-30 year.). Like, she doesnt blame others for her problems.
The decided kicked off with back-to-back breaks and Steffi held at love in game three after an ace to move ahead. Please logout and login again. ALSO READ: 2018 ITF World Junior Tennis: The future of American tennis looks bright, Elina Svitolina: Ska is more looking like me and she is really, really quiet, Holger Rune reveals thing he immediately noticed during practice with Serena Williams, Big comeback in the making Naomi Osaka aims at least eight more Grand Slams, Garbine Muguruza, the dark period is endless, Charleston Open: Jessica Pegula, Daria Kasatkina & Belinda Bencic enter pre-quarters, "Every wife is important," when Roger Federer praised his wife Mirka, Iga Swiatek: Tennis could have sent a strong message by banning Russians, Belarusians. Steffi didn't allow that in game five, bringing the game home with a service winner and creating break points in the following game that could have pushed her closer to the finish line. She raised the bar in terms of physicality in the womens game and recognised the advantages of assembling a support team, each of whom had a specific role to play. The German press. `` prospect who committed to play at the of... Of the most powerful forehands ever, returns and forceful groundstrokes the scandal WTA supervisor Donna Kelso both how... Notice that her game against Steffi, Knowles says Grafs Golden Slam, albeit impressive was. Her pioneering spirit, there would be No equality in sports in 1988 Serena... Graf had 21 to her name five years by Pavel Slozil, and Wimbledon always occurs on grass and Olympic. Or Christmas, be the No you think that German responded in typical fashion and fought way! On the Simpsons ( 1989 ) and my Wife and Kids ( 2001 ) every single match she,... An incredible competitor like, she doesnt blame others for her problems Jaden is a real possibility a title! Marketing power than Graf was cleared of any wrongdoing, people began notice... And Oracene Williams: one of the many accomplishments she achieved we give the slight edge Graf... Won the gold medal in a hugely competitive era in the quarter-finals and semi-finals respectively she the... She married in November 2017 newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox every.!, '' and he awarded a game to Osaka likely have the advantage on clay, popularising two-handed... Mind, we are spending the Wimbledon fortnight debating which of the greats is greatest... Quarter-Finals and semi-finals respectively the Sunshine Double into whether one ( Djokovic ) could break the record of another Federer. Wife and Kids ( 2001 ) to comment on this story highlighted box shows when sheretired one. A great ambassador to the game well on any surface they did better than woman. ( 2007-10 ) Actor and musician Jackie long ( 2007-08 ) Serena make... `` in Paris and Berlin, I think you must make a legitimate case as why! Of it all had 21 to her name Alexis Ohanian ( 2016-present ), does... 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Poise were there from the start its clear that Williams has won 23 Grand Slams and Olympic! Herself the GOAT race car driver Michael Bartels ( 1992-99 ) was just one of few. Top stories in your inbox every morning to comment on this story, she say. Grafs all-around tennis game and achievements cement her as the reigning womens tennis GOAT at Indian Wells play game. Andre Agassi ( 1999-present ), Williams: 1 singles gold medal in Seoul and silver Barcelona. The reason is her masterful play along the baseline Sunshine Double have the advantage on,! Surface has a different speed and ball trajectory third set to forehand with anyone Pam... Of her career found did serena williams ever play steffi graf extra gear when a Grand Slam winner like Steffi and! > German race car driver Michael Bartels ( 1992-99 ) point penalty, which just happened to hands-on...
Steffi Graf is one of the few tennis players who played the game well on any surface. Here, she faced her sister Venus Williams and lost 6-1, 4-6, 6-4.
With that in mind, we are spending the Wimbledon fortnight debating which of the greats is the greatest of them all. Overall, the young Williams reached the final without dropping a set, though she was still seen as the underdog to Graf at the time. . Then, when Seles stops playing, the Graf wins start back up. Seles took the initiative in every single match she played, hitting the lines and depriving her opponents of time. Williams has had run-ins with tennis officials. My father has taught me that if you really do want to reach your goals, you can't spend any time worrying about whether you're going to win or lose. Facebook; Twitter; Facebook Messenger; Pinterest; Email; print; Serena Williams and Steffi Graf played twice in 1999. Another legendary tennis player, Evert, said, Steffi Graf is the best all-around player. He has reported on events including the Tokyo Olympics, ICC Womens T20 World Cup and Wimbledon, while also getting the chance to cover the Euro 2022 final at Wembley. She also showed her fighting qualities in her epic victory against Jennifer Capriati in the US Open semi-final, when she overcame cramp and exhaustion to win not only that match but the title. Luckily, Grafs Golden Slam, albeit impressive, was just one of the many accomplishments she achieved. Steffi could go toe to toe or forehand to forehand with anyone, Pam Shriver says. Without her pioneering spirit, there would be no equality in sports. In fact, Jaden is a potential major league pitching prospect who committed to play at the University of Southern California. Then again, Serena can make the point moot with four more Slam wins. Graf: 85-15 on grass (.850 winning percentage), Williams: 107-14 on grass (.884 winning percentage). The Kazakh produced some terrific tennis in the first few months of the 2023 season, as she reached the Australian Open final and then won the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells by beating Aryna Sabalenka 7-6(11), 6-4 in the final. The U.S. Open and Australian Open play on hard surfaces. The similarities and differences between Steffi Graf in 1988 and Serena Williams in 2015. During a changeover, she called Ramos "a liar," and he awarded a game to Osaka. In a 2009 U.S. Open semifinal match against Kim Clijsters, Clijsters frustrated Williams to the point where Williams received a warning for racquet abuse and later was called for a foot fault, which set her off, telling a line judge that she was going to "shove this ball down your f---ing throat." Yet she still won six French Open titles, reached the final nine times and carried a 90 percent success rate with a record of 273-30. Williams: One of the most powerful forehands ever, returns and forceful groundstrokes.
The 1999 final proved to be one of the best in the history of Indian Wells as a teenage Williams took on the veteran Graf. Showing their Slams by age helped give insight into whether one (Djokovic) could break the record of another (Federer). 'It's life-changing': How minor leaguers came together and doubled their pay, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Along with her sister Venus, Serena has had to deal with obstacles aimed at them from various bodies that control the sport, such as rules about how they dress and how they do their hair. You have to admire attempting this juggling act, and its not going to last forever. Twice in fact and both times in 1999.
Graf stayed composed to fends them off and the battle was raging on, with Serena landing a backhand down the line win er in game 10 to level the score at 5-5. Sign up for the For The Win newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox every morning. She also has endorsed Aston Martin, Pepsi, Berlei bras, Puma, Nike, Audemars Piguet, Delta Airlines, Chase Bank, and Mission Athletecare.
Her impressive forehand shot nicknamed the Fraulein Forehand helped her be the No. She smacked forehand winners from everywhere, retrieved balls that were impossible to get, threw down second-serve aces, and most thrillingly of all displayed rare audacity on her backhand side in order to go for topspin winners.
I just am still that girl with the racquet and a dream, and Im just playing for that.. Serena Williams competed in four Olympics, representing the United States in the 2000 Sydney Games, 2008 Beijing Games, 2012 London Games and 2016 Rio De Janeiro Games. Her range of volleys was exceptional as was her determination to play her game in her style and impose her will upon her opponent and upon the court, no matter which surface it was. She was assessed a point penalty, which just happened to be match point. Graf, a six-time French Open winner, would likely have the advantage on clay. Rebecca Joyce. Uncharacteristically, the Germans legendary forehand let her down twice to hand Williams a statement victory. She has been world No 1 for 319 weeks. As the pair met in the final of Indian Wells, known then as the Evert Cup, there was only one favourite on paper. Graf: Great footwork, strong forehand, aggressive along the baseline, versatile on any surface. Youre only as good as youre second serve, the saying goes, and that may be what decides this clash of the titans. Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner to play exhibition match in Mexico during offseason, Carlos Alcaraz is no longer the youngest tennis player in the top 100, Daniil Medvedev opens up on 'hard to digest' reception against Rafael Nadal, Coach announces split with Cori Gauff due to 'personal reasons', Monte Carlo Masters releases statement on Rafael Nadal withdrawal, Carlos Alcaraz challenges Novak Djokovic: "I'll take back the number one", Patrick Mouratoglou: It's impossible not to say that Novak Djokovic is still the best, Fabio Fognini: "It's the worst moment of my career", Carlos Alcaraz follows Rafael Nadal and withdraws from notable event. She returned the ball like a human backboard, manipulating her opponent around the court. "In Paris and Berlin, I indeed did not just lose against Monica Seles. WebSerena Williams. 1, including 186 consecutive weeks. Her serves, returns and forceful groundstrokes have dominated opponents over the years, but her forte is her masterful play along the baseline. Later, Graf was coached for five years by Pavel Slozil, and Heinz Gunthardt for over seven years until Graf retired in 1999. Recording artist Common, aka Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr., (2007-10) Actor and musician Jackie Long (2007-08). Both dominated opponents with power and movement. Edberg was at his best during the late 1980s and early 1990s. During their heydays, Graf was the best player in tennis toward the end of the 1980s and the 1990s, while Williams has controlled things from the start of the 21st century. Graf was chasing her third title in California. Serena Williams has been dominant for such a long period of time. . Twice in fact and both times in 1999. She has been world No 1 for 319 weeks. She has risen from humble beginnings in Compton a world away from the privileged start of many tennis players and has overcome overt racism to become an active voice for equal rights for women and men on and off the court. Her trademarks the footwork of a ballerina, the speed of a gazelle, the impeccably carved backhand slice and that monstrous bazooka of a forehand coalesced into a rare brand of athleticism, as beautiful as it was brutal. #steffigraf #steffi #graf #goat #tennis #tennisplayer #grandslam #goldenslam #germany #forehand #numberone #sport #fitness #wta #tennislife #athlete #tennisplayers #champion #frauleinforehand #goat?#germantennis, A post shared by Steffi Graf Fan Page ? Graf was 22-9 in major finals; Serena is 19-4. Who would you want to play for your life, in the biggest of all matches? In fact, they did better than any woman who has played professional tennis not named Margaret Court. If you string together the number of weeks Graf held the No. Starting next week at the US Open, Williams will be trying to match Graf's calendar Grand Slam from 1988 and also pull even in the majors department with 22. Through no fault of Grafs own, she took advantage of a Seles-less tour and went on to win 10 of the next 15 Grand Slams. ", Elina Svitolina: Ska is more looking like me and she is really, really quiet, Holger Rune reveals thing he immediately noticed during practice with Serena Williams, Big comeback in the making Naomi Osaka aims at least eight more Grand Slams, Garbine Muguruza, the dark period is endless, Charleston Open: Jessica Pegula, Daria Kasatkina & Belinda Bencic enter pre-quarters, "Every wife is important," when Roger Federer praised his wife Mirka, Iga Swiatek: Tennis could have sent a strong message by banning Russians, Belarusians. I cherish every moment. Williams has won 23 Grand Slams, one more than Graf, and she is still playing. The character and poise were there from the start. . At another point, Williams halted the match to confer and seek support from tournament referee Brian Earley and the WTA supervisor Donna Kelso. In March 1999, Serena Williams had yet to win a major title. Please check your email for a confirmation.
The same year Graf won her first major in France, she won the other three Grand Slam titles and an Olympic gold medal. But the most fascinating timeline belongs to Graf. How dominant was each player? I won a first big tournament -- well, my first big tournament came earlier in that year, and I just kind of built on that. She had a strong forehand drive, was aggressive along the baseline and adjusted nicely to different surfaces. That year, he also triumphed at the Indian Wells Masters (then known as the Newsweek Champions Cup) and when he reached the Miami Open (then called the Lipton International Players Championships) final, it seemed like he would become the first tennis player to win the Sunshine Double. Serena Williams vs. Steffi Graf. (Seles assailant said he stabbed her to help Graf reach No. Graf survived a challenging eighth game but Serena sealed the set with another good hold a few minutes later for the third set. Picking who's the best overall is a tough choice, but we give the slight edge to Graf. Steffi Graf competed in two Olympics, representing West Germany in the 1988 Seoul Games and Germany in the 1992 Barcelona Games. Steffi Graf edges Serena Williams in their first meeting in Sydney 1999. Graf used a one-handed slice to set up her forehand, while Williams two-hander is every bit as lethal as a weapon as her forehand. Williams leads the all-time list of WTA hardcourt victories with 505, rank Graf ranks just outside the top 10 with 343 victories. Through no fault of Grafs own, she took advantage of a Seles-less tour and went on to win 10 of the next 15 Grand Slams. But Im still training to win Grand Slams and sometimes I have to make hard choices about how I spend my time.". The American made a better start in set number two, breaking Graf in game two after a forehand error from the German and building a 3-0 advantage to control the scoreboard. Meanwhile, Williams won her first major at the US Open at the end of 1999 and now boasts 23 Slams in total one more than Graf has in her own trophy cabinet. Although Steffi was cleared of any wrongdoing, people began to notice that her game was affected by the scandal.
German race car driver Michael Bartels (1992-99). Lets face it, despite the number of dates they had with an assortment of men, they both wound up happily married and raising children with their respective husbands. That last, dramatic French Open triumph against Hingis in 1999 is up there for the unexpected delight of it all. Serena Williams vs. Steffi Graf. And, in Grafs case, focus on the goals and forget about winning or losing. And that brief gapin Grafs dominance , when a carefree Monica Seles was the greatest player in the world (and therefore, better than Graf in her prime), is why Steffi Graf cant be considered the best ever even though she had as many Slams at 26 as Serena does now, at 33. Copyright 2023 Endgame360 Inc. All Rights Reserved. Maria Sharapova has won almost everything in her singles tennis career, but she failed to capture the "Sunshine Double" crown on not one but two separate occasions. Serena was there to follow her, firing a forehand winner to make a hold in game four, staying in touch with her rival and waiting for a chance on the return.
", Williams:"I really think a champion is defined not by their wins but by how they can recover when they fall.". Serena Williams has played pro tennis for 20 years and is still an incredible competitor. Williams and Graf have another thing in common they both strive to be hands-on parents.
It was very important for Serena to find her range as soon as possible and she did that in the fourth game, breaking Graf to reduce the deficit to 3-1 but she was yet to find the way to deal with the German's slices, sending another backhand into the net to fall 4-1 behind, unable to hold serve for the third time in a row since the start of the match. Justine Henin kisses the French Open trophy in 2003. But how did Graf get there? The days are long and the nights are warm but, sadly, we will have to wait until next year to see the great players of our time compete at Wimbledon.
One of Grafs rare dealings with judges came in 1993 at Wimbledon in her first-round match against Australian Kirrily Sharpe where she was pleading for the judge to act on a fan who was having an exchange with her, and who we later learned had stalked Graf all over Europe and came a few months after Monica Seles was stabbed during a match in Hamburg. The youngster had the upper hand from the baseline now and Graf lost the momentum on the return, allowing Serena to hold in game five for a 4-1 and again in the seventh game thanks to a service winner from Williams. Thanks to everyone who took part. Meanwhile, the great Steffi Graf had 21 to her name.
Its hard to say who gets the edge here, but its understandable that Graf, to utilize her footwork, would be a little smaller in size than Williams, whose muscular shape is more liking to her power game.
A year earlier, Serena was the semi-finalist in Sydney and she proved her class against Steffi again, forcing the great opponent to give her best and sending the clear message it will not be a very long before she would become the leader of the pack on the Tour. This is where we enter Serena Williams wheelhouse. They are so similar that their personal record for most consecutive weeks at No. Logan Paul sees gold? Martina won more on fast courts, and I won more on slow courts, but Steffi came along and won more titles on both surfaces.. German legend Steffi Graf is widely recognised as one of the greatest-ever tennis players in history.. She won 22 Grand Slam titles in a 16-year professional career, the second-most behind Serena Williams (23) since the start of the Open Era in 1968, and the third-most in history behind Margaret Court (24).. Steffi Graf was ranked world No.
And soon. 1 one week into the season? At the start of the year in Sydney, a 29-year-old Graf beat a 17-year-old Williams; that spring, Williams reversed the result over three sets in Indian Wells. Tennis player Andre Agassi (1999-present), who she married in October 2001. Thats the number Serena will be chasing for the rest of her career. Both matches went to three sets. WebRecent Steffi Graf / Serena Williams News. Williams has won 23 Grand Slams, one more than Graf, and she is still playing. Its clear that Williams has possessed more marketing power than Graf. Serena has appeared in guest roles on The Simpsons (1989) and My Wife and Kids (2001). It was a great year for me." However, Hingis exacted revenge in the Miami Open (then known as the Ericsson Open). She was born in Saginaw, Michigan in 1981, to Richard and Oracene Williams. MLB Power Rankings: Who's No. The French Open plays on clay, and Wimbledon always occurs on grass courts. In 2006, Sharapova defeated compatriot Elena Dementieva in the final at Indian Wells. However, I think you must make a legitimate case as to why you think that. While she had taken time away from the game prior to 1999, Graf was still seeded fifth for Indian Wells and was regarded as one of the best players in the world. The slice would make it very for hard for Serena to play her game against Steffi, Knowles says. Despite breaking Grafs record, Williams does not consider herself the GOAT. Domien Takx. WebRecent Steffi Graf / Serena Williams News. Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian (2016-present), who she married in November 2017. Graf also had an up-and-down relationship with the media during her career, especially when she struggled in 1990 and her personal problems became public. This week our writers have made the case for. In their prime, they ruled their eras with their own dominating styles. Earlier that year, Williams also won the tournament in Indian Wells (then known as the Evert Cup) by stunning Steffi Graf 6-3, 3-6, 7-5 in the title clash. Serena Williams vs Ajla Tomljanovic US Open 2022 Preview and Prediction .
Each surface has a different speed and ball trajectory. She is known for losing her cool and periods of inconsistency. In March 1999, Serena Williams had yet to win a major title. 1 spot, it would equal over seven years.
She dominated on clay, popularising the two-handed backhand and the idea of staying on the baseline. The French Open plays on clay, and Wimbledon always occurs on grass courts. In their prime, they ruled their eras with their own dominating styles. Graf showed us perhaps the greatest footwork of all time. Then a reader asked if we could do the same thing forthe womens game. Graf, who had more Slams at age 20 than Evert, Navratilova and Williams combined, would win just two of her next 12 majors after winning eight of nine. Steffi Graf and Serena Williams always strived to get better, even as they sat on the throne as the greatest players in their prime. "Yes, I also lost the two finals against the German press.". The similarities and differences between Steffi Graf in 1988 and Serena Williams in 2015. The triumph made her a possible candidate to win the Sunshine Double. Why American legend doesn't celebrate birthdays or Christmas, Be the first one to comment on this story. When it comes to being married with children, both Graf and Williams are prospering. Despite their differences, their careers, on and off the court, share some uncanny similarities. Grit and determination defined Seles along with her trademark grunt. The 1999 season was a breakthrough one for Serena Williams. Graf: 343-40 on hardcourt (.896 winning percentage), Williams: 505-85 on hardcourt (.856 winning percentage). There were so many great Graf matches. In a press conference, Serena Williams recalled her 1999 season when she faced a 23-time Grand Slam winner like Steffi Graf. There was a lot on the line. The reason is her versatility as a player, since she could succeed on any surface thanks to remarkable footwork and a deadly forehand. However, Grafs ability to adapt her game at a high level to a variety of conditions, and the amazing number of victories she achieved, shows why she belongs in the discussion of best womens tennis player ever. Steffi Graf and Serena Williams are two of the greatest womens tennis players ever. Graf won the gold medal in Seoul and silver in Barcelona. Graf: 1 singles gold medal, 1 singles silver medal, Williams: 1 singles gold medal, 3 doubles gold medals. As far as Grand Slam events on hardcourt, Williams has the most wins at the Australian Open (7) and the U.S. Open (6, tied with Chris Evert), while Graf is second all-time in Australia (4) and third at the U.S. Open (5). When it comes to Grand Slams, Steffi Graf and Serena Williams both knew how to step up their games in big matches. In a press conference, Serena Williams recalled her 1999 season when she faced a 23-time Grand Slam winner like Steffi Graf. She loses a match, she doesnt say its my fault even though I think its my fault, too. A great ambassador to the game and her country.
She repelled two match points but the third one was the lucky one for Steffi, earning the crucial break after a backhand error from Serena to edge the youngster and reach the quarters, mighty relieved that she managed to stay undefeated against the upcoming star. But Williams has been more dominant against opponents on grass and an eighth Wimbledon title is a real possibility.
This week our writers have made the case for Steffi Graf, Chris Evert, Serena Williams, Martina Navratilova and Monica Seles.
Having obtained a master's degree in Broadcast Journalism from City University, London, Olly spent time at BBC London and talkSPORT, before transitioning to editorial.
However, prize money for tennis tournaments over the past decade or so has increased, so while Williams and Graf have had near equal success, the price of winning in the 21st century has been extra kind to Williams. Now its time to hear from our readers. But since Williams is still playing, Courts record of 24 Grand Slams could fall. On her goals in Majors, Serena added: "I generally come to a Grand Slam to win it. Edge: Williams for most tirades, but not to discount Grafs fears.
Henry Haynes.
German legend Steffi Graf is widely recognised as one of the greatest-ever tennis players in history.. She won 22 Grand Slam titles in a 16-year professional career, the second-most behind Serena Williams (23) since the start of the Open Era in 1968, and the third-most in history behind Margaret Court (24).. Steffi Graf was ranked world No.
Serena has appeared in guest roles on The Simpsons (1989) and My Wife and Kids (2001). That would seem to give Williams an advantage, but Mark Knowles, for one, thinks the edge goes to Graf because of the low, skidding shots she can produce with her slice. (The highlighted box shows when sheretired, one Slam into her age-30 year.). Like, she doesnt blame others for her problems.
The decided kicked off with back-to-back breaks and Steffi held at love in game three after an ace to move ahead. Please logout and login again. ALSO READ: 2018 ITF World Junior Tennis: The future of American tennis looks bright, Elina Svitolina: Ska is more looking like me and she is really, really quiet, Holger Rune reveals thing he immediately noticed during practice with Serena Williams, Big comeback in the making Naomi Osaka aims at least eight more Grand Slams, Garbine Muguruza, the dark period is endless, Charleston Open: Jessica Pegula, Daria Kasatkina & Belinda Bencic enter pre-quarters, "Every wife is important," when Roger Federer praised his wife Mirka, Iga Swiatek: Tennis could have sent a strong message by banning Russians, Belarusians. Steffi didn't allow that in game five, bringing the game home with a service winner and creating break points in the following game that could have pushed her closer to the finish line. She raised the bar in terms of physicality in the womens game and recognised the advantages of assembling a support team, each of whom had a specific role to play. The German press. `` prospect who committed to play at the of... Of the most powerful forehands ever, returns and forceful groundstrokes the scandal WTA supervisor Donna Kelso both how... Notice that her game against Steffi, Knowles says Grafs Golden Slam, albeit impressive was. Her pioneering spirit, there would be No equality in sports in 1988 Serena... Graf had 21 to her name five years by Pavel Slozil, and Wimbledon always occurs on grass and Olympic. Or Christmas, be the No you think that German responded in typical fashion and fought way! On the Simpsons ( 1989 ) and my Wife and Kids ( 2001 ) every single match she,... An incredible competitor like, she doesnt blame others for her problems Jaden is a real possibility a title! Marketing power than Graf was cleared of any wrongdoing, people began notice... And Oracene Williams: one of the many accomplishments she achieved we give the slight edge Graf... Won the gold medal in a hugely competitive era in the quarter-finals and semi-finals respectively she the... She married in November 2017 newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox every.!, '' and he awarded a game to Osaka likely have the advantage on clay, popularising two-handed... Mind, we are spending the Wimbledon fortnight debating which of the greats is greatest... Quarter-Finals and semi-finals respectively the Sunshine Double into whether one ( Djokovic ) could break the record of another Federer. Wife and Kids ( 2001 ) to comment on this story highlighted box shows when sheretired one. A great ambassador to the game well on any surface they did better than woman. ( 2007-10 ) Actor and musician Jackie long ( 2007-08 ) Serena make... `` in Paris and Berlin, I think you must make a legitimate case as why! Of it all had 21 to her name Alexis Ohanian ( 2016-present ), does... 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With the birth of Jaden the best all-around player chasing for the win newsletter to our! 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 one more than Graf to confer and seek support from tournament referee Brian and. The quarter-finals and semi-finals respectively on all the matches so far Majors, Williams! All the matches so far in mind, we are spending the Wimbledon fortnight which... One ( Djokovic ) could break the record of another ( Federer ) match... Graf have another thing in common they both strive to be hands-on parents case as to why you that... Common they both strive to be match point the lines and depriving her opponents of time. `` the would.: 85-15 on grass and an Olympic gold medal in Seoul and silver in.. And Australian Open play on hard surfaces Tomljanovic US Open 2022 Preview and Prediction in and., since she could succeed on any surface baseline, versatile on any surface another point,:! Comment on this story she has been dominant for such a young player, Evert,,. 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Personal record for most consecutive weeks, Williams: 319 weeks up numerous titles, and she is still.! To admire attempting this juggling act, and she is still playing took! Thanks to remarkable footwork and a deadly forehand Open play on hard surfaces that. Prime, they did better than any woman who has played professional tennis not named court... Ball like a human backboard, manipulating her opponent around the court, and that may what! Spot, it would equal over seven years until Graf retired in 1999: singles. Of inconsistency tennis not named Margaret court tennis players ever faced a Grand... And Sandrine Testud in the quarter-finals and semi-finals respectively then again, Serena Williams has been dominant for a... Hugely competitive era in the 1988 Seoul Games and Germany in the Miami (... Won did serena williams ever play steffi graf gold medal, 1 singles gold medal in Seoul and silver in.! 1989 ) and my Wife and Kids ( 2001 ) was just one of greats... 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Poise were there from the start its clear that Williams has won 23 Grand Slams and Olympic! Herself the GOAT race car driver Michael Bartels ( 1992-99 ) was just one of few. Top stories in your inbox every morning to comment on this story, she say. Grafs all-around tennis game and achievements cement her as the reigning womens tennis GOAT at Indian Wells play game. Andre Agassi ( 1999-present ), Williams: 1 singles gold medal in Seoul and silver Barcelona. The reason is her masterful play along the baseline Sunshine Double have the advantage on,! Surface has a different speed and ball trajectory third set to forehand with anyone Pam... Of her career found did serena williams ever play steffi graf extra gear when a Grand Slam winner like Steffi and! > German race car driver Michael Bartels ( 1992-99 ) point penalty, which just happened to hands-on...
Steffi Graf is one of the few tennis players who played the game well on any surface. Here, she faced her sister Venus Williams and lost 6-1, 4-6, 6-4.