Rod Laver

Australian legend who is the only player in tennis history to complete the calendar-year Grand Slam twice, in 1962 as an amateur and 1969 in the Open era.

Rodney George Laver was born in Rockhampton, Australia in 1938. He is the only tennis player in history to win all four Grand Slam tournaments in a calendar year twice — in 1962 as an amateur and again in 1969 after the Open Era began, when professionals were finally allowed to compete. His 11 Grand Slam titles include four Wimbledon championships, three Australian Open titles, two French Open titles and two US Open titles. He won the Grand Slam across two different eras of the sport, a feat that reflects both his dominance as an amateur and his sustained excellence as a professional. He was forced to turn professional after his 1962 Grand Slam, which meant he missed the Grand Slam events from 1963 to 1967 during his prime years — a period in which he won 19 professional titles. His Wimbledon record and his combination of power from the left arm with extraordinary athleticism made him the player that subsequent generations of coaches cited as the technical model. The ATP's showpiece event is called the Laver Cup in his honour.

Laver was renowned for his powerful left-handed serve and exceptional all-court game. He possessed tremendous topspin on his groundstrokes, particularly his forehand, which was revolutionary for his era. His athleticism, court coverage, and ability to hit winners from any position on the court made him incredibly difficult to defeat.

Laver's achievements led to the Australian Open's main stadium being named Rod Laver Arena in his honor. He remains the only player in tennis history to complete the Grand Slam twice, cementing his status as one of the sport's all-time greats.

• 11 Grand Slam singles titles
• only player to complete the calendar-year Grand Slam twice (1962, 1969)
• 4x Davis Cup champion
• International Tennis Hall of Fame (1981)