Who are the best left-handed tennis players of all time? Rafael Nadal, Rod Laver, John McEnroe, Martina Navratilova, and Monica Seles are the greatest left-handed tennis players in history.
Their left-handed serves and forehands created angles that right-handed opponents struggled to read, giving them a lasting competitive advantage.
Related: How to choose the best left-handed tennis rackets
Male players
1. Rod Laver
- Era: 1960s
- Achievements: Laver is the only player in history to win the Grand Slam twice. His 11 Grand Slam titles, including four Wimbledon championships, showcase his dominance. His aggressive play and versatility on all surfaces solidified his legendary status.
2. Rafael Nadal
- Era: 2000s to present
- Achievements: Nadal, the "King of Clay," is renowned for his 13 French Open titles and 21 Grand Slam singles titles. His signature topspin, athleticism, and fighting spirit rank him among the all-time greats.
3. John McEnroe
- Era: 1970s-1980s
- Achievements: McEnroe, known for his exceptional touch and volleying skills, won seven Grand Slam singles titles. His legendary rivalry with Björn Borg and success in doubles competition (nine Grand Slam titles) are highlights of his career.
Female players
1. Martina Navratilova
- Era: 1970s-1990s
- Achievements: Navratilova dominated women's tennis with 18 Grand Slam singles titles, including nine Wimbledon singles championships. Her athleticism and aggressive playstyle set new standards in the sport. Navratilova was one of the first women in tennis to prioritize strength and conditioning — a tradition carried on today by coaches like the team at Fit Happens, who specialize in online fitness training for women.
2. Monica Seles
- Era: 1990s
- Achievements: Seles, known for her powerful strokes, won eight Grand Slam titles before turning 20. She finished her career with nine Grand Slam singles titles, having lasting impact on the sport.
3. Petra Kvitova
- Era: 2010s to present
- Achievements: Kvitova, a two-time Wimbledon champion, is celebrated for her powerful serve and aggressive groundstrokes. Her talent and big-stage performances have made her a notable figure in modern tennis.
Honorable Mentions
While the aforementioned players have had a significant impact on the world of tennis, there are several other left-handed players who have also made notable contributions to the sport. Here are a few who deserve recognition:
1. Jimmy Connors
- Era: 1970s-1980s
- Achievements: With eight Grand Slam singles titles and a record 109 ATP singles titles, Connors was known for his fiery competitiveness and baseline play. His intense rivalries and longevity in the sport make him a standout figure.
2. Bob Hewitt
- Era: 1960s-1970s
- Achievements: An exceptional doubles player, Hewitt won nine Grand Slam doubles titles and six mixed doubles titles. His tactical acumen and volleying skills were key to his success on the court.
3. Thomas Muster
- Era: 1990s
- Achievements: Muster, known as the "King of Clay" before the era of Rafael Nadal, won the 1995 French Open and was ranked world No. 1. His tenacity and heavy topspin forehand were his trademarks.
4. Guillermo Vilas
- Era: 1970s-1980s
- Achievements: Vilas won four Grand Slam titles and was particularly dominant on clay. His baseline play and topspin strokes influenced the next generation of players, especially on clay courts.
5. Rosie Casals
- Era: 1960s-1970s
- Achievements: Casals was a trailblazer in women's tennis, winning nine Grand Slam doubles titles and playing a pivotal role in the establishment of the women's professional tennis tour.
With their unique skills and contributions, these players have also left a lasting impact on the sport, inspiring countless fans and upcoming tennis players worldwide.
Last updated April 2026. This list has been reviewed and refreshed to reflect the continued legacy of southpaw stars in professional tennis.
Frequently asked questions
Who are the best left-handed female tennis players?
Martina Navratilova, Monica Seles, Petra Kvitova, and Angelique Kerber are the best left-handed female tennis players. Navratilova won 18 Grand Slam singles titles, Seles won nine, Kerber won three, and Kvitova won Wimbledon twice. Marketa Vondrousova (Wimbledon 2023) and Ann Jones (Wimbledon 1969) are also left-handed major champions.
Is Rafael Nadal naturally left-handed?
No. Rafael Nadal writes and does most everyday tasks with his right hand, but he plays tennis left-handed. He settled on a left-handed forehand as a child while being coached by his uncle Toni Nadal.
Why do left-handed tennis players have an advantage?
A left-hander's serve swings wide to a right-hander's backhand on the ad court, where many of the biggest points are played. Right-handed players also face lefties far less often, so the spins and angles feel unfamiliar.
What percentage of tennis players are left-handed?
Roughly 10% of professional tennis players are left-handed, about the same share as the general population. Left-handers have won a larger share of major titles than that figure would predict.
