Getting to know Rod Laver: Why is the Australian such an iconic figure in tennis history?

While a new edition of the now traditional Laver Cup is being played, we proposed to briefly recount some moments that marked the career of Rod Laver, the Australian star who would become synonymous with excellence in world tennis.

Rod Laver is considered by many to be one of the greatest tennis players of all time. Owner of records that to this day have not been broken, the Australian left an unparalleled legacy in the sport of racquetball. Born on August 9, 1938 in Rockhampton, Laver's career was characterized by his impressive on-court ability and his ability to win titles in both the amateur and professional eras.

Rod Laver managed to win a total of 11 majors, in a career that developed partly in amateurism and partly in professionalism. The Australian managed to win Wimbledon 4 times and the Australian Open 3 times, quite an achievement considering that he missed 5 years of major competitions.

Many tennis fans have spent decades watching how different players have dominated the circuit, but Laver is the only tennis player who has managed to complete the "Slam Calendar", and as if that were not enough, he did it twice: first in 1962 and then in 1969. This achievement, which consists of winning all four Grand Slam tournaments in the same year, remains one of the most difficult to achieve in tennis. To add spice: although the members of the Big 3 have had the Tour in the palm of their hands for almost 20 years, neither Nadal, Djokovic nor Federer could achieve such a tremendous feat even once.

Not only did he shine in singles; Laver also had an outstanding career in doubles, with nine additional Grand Slam titles. His ability to compete and succeed in both forms of competition adds another value to his versatility as a player.

Laver's influence extends beyond his sporting achievements. His name is immortalized in tennis, with events and stadiums bearing his name, underscoring his status as a sports icon, inspiring future generations.

"Tennis will realize what a gift it was given by having Rod Laver and Roger Federer associated with a team event like this," said John McEnroe a few years ago, referring to the Laver Cup.