Steffi Graf

Steffi Graf's 1988 season stands as the single greatest year in tennis history, where she achieved the unprecedented 'Golden Slam' – winning all four Grand Slam titles and the Olympic gold medal in the same calendar year. She finished her career with 22 major singles titles and spent a record 377 weeks as WTA World No. 1. Graf was the epitome of athletic power and efficiency, renowned for her explosive footwork, devastating forehand ('Fraulein Forehand'), and slice backhand. She won each Grand Slam at least four times, demonstrating exceptional all-surface versatility. Her rivalry with Monica Seles defined an era, and her ability to maintain a relentless level of performance and consistency throughout the late 80s and 90s cements her status as one of the game's purest champions.