Wild genius who won two Grand Slams and is remembered as one of tennis's most captivating talents.
Marat Safin was born on 27 January 1980 in Moscow, Russia. He turned professional in 1997 and burst onto the scene with his first Grand Slam title at the 2000 US Open, aged 20, dismantling Pete Sampras 6-4, 6-3, 6-3. He followed that with the 2005 Australian Open title, defeating Roger Federer in one of the great finals. Safin was notorious for his racket-smashing tantrums and self-destructive brilliance, but also for moments of sublime tennis. He reached a career-high ranking of No. 1 in the world. He retired in 2009 and went into Russian politics. His sister Dinara Safina also reached No. 1 in the world.
US Open 2000
His sister Dinara Safina also reached No. 1 in the world on the WTA Tour — making them the only brother-sister pair to both be ranked No. 1 in tennis.
Did You Know?Career Honours
- US Open 2000
- Australian Open 2005