The question of which tennis legend you would bring out of retirement sparks lively debate among fans, players, and historians alike. Across the decades, tennis has seen remarkable figures whose skills, charisma, and achievements have shaped the sport into what it is today. Imagining the revival of one of these icons raises fascinating what-ifs: how might their game adapt to today’s faster courts, high-powered rackets, and relentless athleticism? To explore this, let’s dive into some of the most legendary tennis players who left indelible marks on the game—and consider who among them could still pack a punch on modern courts.
First, there’s Pete Sampras, an American legend widely considered one of the best ever to play the game. Dominating the 1990s, Sampras finished as world No. 1 for six consecutive years, collecting 14 Grand Slam singles titles along the way, a record surpassed only years later by Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic. Sampras’ serve-and-volley style was a staple during an era that emphasized aggressive net play and precision serving. His cool demeanor under pressure, epitomized by his clutch performances at Wimbledon and the US Open, cemented his place in tennis history. If he could return, would his classic slice backhand and pinpoint serves still overwhelm today’s baseline giants?
Speaking of Roger Federer, he is often heralded as arguably the greatest tennis player of all time. With a record 20 Grand Slam titles (eventually eclipsed by Nadal and Djokovic), Federer’s blend of effortless grace, impeccable footwork, and versatile shot-making redefined the art of tennis. His dominance on grass courts, particularly at Wimbledon, and consistency across all surfaces made him a fan favorite worldwide. Federer’s ability to adapt his game over two decades speaks volumes about his tennis intellect and physical conditioning. A comeback from Federer would surely electrify the modern circuit, but with his retirement due to injury and age, it remains a beloved dream rather than a likelihood.
Looking further back, we find John McEnroe, a player known as much for his fiery temper as his sublime tennis skills. His volleying ability was unparalleled, and his unique touch around the net was a joy to watch. McEnroe won seven Grand Slam singles titles in a career marked by rivalry and controversy. His battles with Bjorn Borg, especially their epic 1980 Wimbledon final, are the stuff of legend—an enthralling contrast of Borg’s stoicism and McEnroe’s passion. Borg himself deserves mention; the Swedish star’s dominance on clay and grass in the late 1970s and early 1980s helped transform tennis globally. Borg won 11 Grand Slams before retiring abruptly at age 26, an unexpected move considering he was still at the peak of his powers. Borg’s ice-cold baseline play and relentless conditioning would certainly turn heads if he were to play today.
Jimmy Connors also shines in this pantheon of tennis greats. Holding the record for the most ATP match wins and spending 160 weeks at world No. 1, Connors was a spirited competitor with a fierce two-handed backhand and gritty playing style. What set Connors apart was his longevity and fighting spirit—he was still reaching Grand Slam semifinals well into his 30s, long after many of his contemporaries had slowed down. His colorful personality and defiance of tennis etiquette rules made him unforgettable both on and off the court.
Ivan Lendl is another titan who defined an era. Known for his relentless baseline power and impeccable fitness, Lendl was the architect of modern professional tennis conditioning. Winning eight Grand Slam titles and reaching 19 finals, Lendl’s influence extended beyond trophies. He was one of the first stars to embrace advanced training techniques and psychological preparation, practices that are today standard in tennis. Lendl’s dedication to mental and physical discipline made him a formidable opponent and a pioneer of the modern game’s professionalism.
Beyond these household names, other legends also warrant consideration. Rod Laver, the only player to twice complete the calendar-year Grand Slam (winning all four majors in a single season), revolutionized tennis in the 1960s. Martina Navratilova and Steffi Graf each transformed women’s tennis with their athleticism and power, setting standards for future generations. Navratilova, for instance, won a staggering 18 Grand Slam singles titles and went on to dominate doubles well into her 40s.
Considering the modern game’s evolution, devising how these stars would fare today is not just a “serve and volley”—it’s a fascinating intersection of eras. Today’s players benefit from superior racket technology, enhanced sports science, and advanced nutrition. The baseline power game, speed, and defensive skills have raised the level of physicality immensely. Would Sampras’ serve and volley still have the same edge? Could Borg’s impeccable fitness and baseline consistency temper modern power hitters? How about McEnroe’s artistry at the net in a game increasingly dominated by baseline rallies?
There’s also the question of mental fortitude amid the relentless travel schedules and grueling best-of-five-set matches. Players like Connors and Lendl excelled in mental toughness, with Lendl especially focused on conditioning the mind as well as the body. Federer and Djokovic, from the modern era, embody these traits and have set new standards for resilience.
Ultimately, choosing which tennis legend to bring back depends on personal preference: whether you favor the stylistic elegance of Federer, the gritty tenacity of Connors, the revolutionary conditioning of Lendl, or the fiery passion of McEnroe. Each contributed uniquely to tennis history and left legacies that inspire today’s players.
The allure of bringing back a retired legend is undeniable—it’s a chance to witness firsthand the skill and spirit that defined generations. As tennis continues to evolve, honoring the trailblazers of past eras enriches the appreciation of the sport. So whether you pick the “King of Wimbledon” Sampras, the “Swiss Maestro” Federer, or the “Ice Man” Borg, their return would serve up excitement that fans around the world would relish.
Who would you choose to bring back onto the court? Whichever legend you pick, it’s clear that their impact on tennis is timeless, proving that great players never truly retire from our memories or the sport’s history.