Brazilian · Florianópolis, Brazil · Born 10 September 1976Gustavo Kuerten, known as 'Guga', is a Brazilian former professional tennis player who won the French Open three times and reached world No. 1.
Gustavo "Guga" Kuerten was born on 10 September 1976 in Florianópolis, in Brazil's southern Santa Catarina state, and turned professional in 1995, developing into one of the most naturally gifted clay-court players in the history of the sport, renowned for a fluid one-handed backhand and an infectious, joyful playing style. Kuerten won his first Grand Slam title at the 1997 French Open as an unseeded 20-year-old ranked 66th in the world, defeating three former champions along the way in one of the most surprising Grand Slam triumphs of the modern era. He went on to win the title twice more, in 2000 and 2001, becoming the tournament's most successful player of his generation on the Paris clay. Kuerten became the first South American man to reach the world No. 1 ranking, achieving the feat on 4 December 2000 after winning the season-ending Tour Finals, and finished that year as the year-end world No. 1 — the biggest Brazilian tennis star since Maria Bueno decades earlier. Brazil issued a postage stamp featuring Kuerten in front of the Eiffel Tower following his 2001 French Open triumph. Hip and other physical problems significantly limited Kuerten's results after his prime, and he retired in 2008 with 20 ATP singles titles. He was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2012, and remains one of the most beloved figures in Brazilian sport, his colourful clothing and toothy smile making him an icon to a generation of Brazilian tennis fans.
Three-time French Open champion known as 'Guga'
After his 2001 Roland Garros title win, he drew a heart in the clay court in front of 15,000 fans — one of sport's most iconic celebration moments.
Did You Know?How They Played
Kuerten was a clay court specialist with a powerful single-handed backhand and exceptional topspin forehand that was perfectly suited to slow surfaces. He possessed great court coverage and defensive skills, often turning defense into attack with his ability to hit winners from difficult positions. His game was built around patience, consistency, and the ability to construct points methodically.
Lasting Impact
Kuerten inspired a generation of Brazilian tennis players and helped popularize tennis in South America through his charismatic personality and success at the highest level.
Career Honours
- French Open 1997, 2000, 2001
- former world No. 1
Brazilian Athletes