Graf, on the other hand, was not rigid in her approach and was always willing to adapt to the situation, which is why she was successful on every surface — clay, grass, and hard court. Graf, unlike many other tennis greats, did not have a favourite surface and was equally dominant on all of the surfaces.
Today is the 52nd birthday of the German star, so here are some interesting facts about her:
1. For a record-breaking 377 weeks, she was ranked number one in the world (more than 7 years).
2. In her 17-year career, she won 22 Grand Slam titles, the second-most major trophies since the Open Era began. Serena Williams, who has won a record 23 Grand Slams, is only a few points behind her.
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3. Graf is currently ranked third in the Women Singles event, after Margaret Court (24) and Serena Williams.
4. She is the first male or female tennis player to have won all four Grand Slams and an Olympic Gold Medal in the same calendar year. This was accomplished in 1988, 11 years before she retired.
5. Graf is the only male or female tennis player to have won each Grand Slam at least four times.
6. When she announced her retirement in 1999, she was placed third in the WTA rankings.
7. In 2001, Graf tied the knot with former world No. 1 Andre Agassi. The duo has two children together - Jaden Gill and Jaz Elle.
8. Graf and Court are the only tennis players, male or female, to win three Grand Slam trophies five times in a calendar year — 1988, 1989, 1993, 1995, and 1996.