Rod Laver

Rod Laver (born August 9, 1938) is an Australian former tennis player widely regarded as one of the greatest of all time. He is the only player, male or female, to have twice won the calendar-year Grand Slam, achieving this feat in 1962 as an amateur and again in 1969 as a professional.

Laver dominated amateur tennis in the early 1960s, winning the Australian Open (1960), Wimbledon (1961, 1962), and the US Open (1962). He turned professional in 1963, a period when professional and amateur tennis were largely segregated. After the Open Era began in 1968, allowing professionals and amateurs to compete together, Laver quickly re-established his dominance.

His 1969 season is considered by many to be the greatest single season in tennis history. In addition to his calendar-year Grand Slam, he won numerous other tournaments and was consistently ranked No. 1.

Laver was known for his powerful left-handed serve and volley game, his topspin forehand, and his exceptional court coverage. He officially retired from professional tennis in 1979.

He was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1981. The main show court at the Australian Open is named Rod Laver Arena in his honor. His accomplishments and legacy continue to inspire generations of tennis players. He is recognized for his sportsmanship and humility both on and off the court.