Latest news with #SteffiGraf
Time of India
11 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
The Ultimate Fan Ranking: 10 Greatest Female Tennis Players in History
Image via Instagram Tennis fans love their champions larger than life—powerful serves, personality, and that magic moment on court or camera. Over generations, certain female athletes have transcended racquets to become cultural icons: from the trailblazing activists of the '70s to the powerhouse personalities of today's social-media era. Our fan-fueled ranking considers not just trophies but global fame—who sold the most merch, filled stadiums, lit up broadcasts, and became inescapable household names. This isn't a stats-only countdown; it's a popularity parade where charisma counts as much as championships. Ready to meet the ten women whose fame stretched beyond borders, sparked debates, memes, and fanclubs worldwide? Let's smash into it—quirky intros, juicy details, all the flair. 1. Serena Williams Image via Saltzburger Nachrichten No surprise: Serena Williams sits at the top as arguably the most popular female athlete ever. With 23 Grand Slam singles titles, 319 weeks at world No. 1 and a personality that sparked intense media attention, she became an unstoppable force on and off court . Memorable for that 128 mph ace at the 2013 Aussie Open, countless fashion statements, and championing equality, Serena embodied power, drama, and style. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 3BHK Transformation Possible for ₹4.5 Lakh? HomeLane Get Quote Undo 2. Steffi Graf Image via CNN German phenom Steffi Graf revolutionized tennis: 22 Majors, a flawless Golden Slam in 1988, and a record 377 weeks at No. 1—plus a fanbase so devoted they still remember lines on clay and grass . Graf's effortless forehand and cool demeanor made her a global household name—even non‑tennis fans knew her, and some ex‑bodyguards say she still fills stadiums even now. 3. Martina Navratilova Image via Saltzburger Nachrichten Trailblazer Martina Navratilova dazzled with 18 singles Slams, 167 titles, and supersonic serve‑and‑volley—plus 31 doubles Slams and 332 weeks at No. 1 . Her athleticism and outspoken style made her beloved on‑court and off. She stormed into every arena she entered—fans adored both her volleys and her voice. 4. Venus Williams Image via People Magazine Even in her sister's shadow, Venus Williams carved her niche: Seven Grand Slams, 270 major match wins, fierce advocacy for equal pay—and a personality that blended elegance with grit . She's a hero not just for tennis, but for justice—asking Wimbledon, 'Would you want your daughter paid less?' was vintage Venus. 5. Chris Evert Image via CNN Calm, cool & ice‑cold: Chris Evert, the 'Ice Maiden', logged 18 Majors and a jaw‑dropping 89.97 % win rate, including a 94.55 % record on clay . Her 34 Slam finals and seven years as year‑end No. 1 cemented her place in fans' hearts as the queen of consistency. 6. Monica Seles Image via Before her tragic on‑court stabbing in 1993, Monica Seles blasted through slams—nine by age 20—totalling 53 titles and 178 weeks at No. 1 . Fans still wonder: what if? That 'what‑if' aura plus her aggressive dual‑handed style keeps her legacy alive and beloved. 7. Maria Sharapova Image via Sky Sports Teen prodigy Maria Sharapova exploded onto the scene in 2004, upset Serena to win Wimbledon at 17, and racked up five majors . Beyond court, she became a global brand—luxury endorsements, dramatic grunts, and a flair for selfies fueled her massive popularity. 8. Billie Jean King Image via New York Historical Champion, activist, citizen hero: Billie Jean King won 39 Grand Slam titles and literally changed the game—she founded the WTA, won "Battle of the Sexes," and fought for equality . Her charisma and courage earned her lasting admiration from fans worldwide. 9. Naomi Osaka Image via Eurosport Fresh, outspoken and globally adored, Naomi Osaka made history as the first Asian world No. 1, a four‑time Major champion and social‑justice activist . She connects with Gen‑Z on mental health and social media, a megastar in the making with a rapidly growing fanbase. 10. Justine Henin Image via Laureus Quintessential clay‑court sorceress Justine Henin may not top ranking charts, but fans remember her steely one‑handed backhand and emotional grit . With seven Majors, she remains a beloved icon, especially in Belgium and among technique-lovers worldwide. From Serena's power to Osaka's social impact, these ten women didn't just dominate courts—they captured hearts. Their fame combines titles, outspokenness, activism, and viral moments that made sports history. Whether smashing records or breaking cultural barriers, each player earned a unique place in fans' minds worldwide. And while Grand Slams glitter, it's that spark—unpredictability, personality, purpose—that keeps these women at the top of popularity polls. Here's to their legends, and here's hoping the next generation gives fans another set of idols to cheer, meme, and salute. Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
Evening Standard
12 hours ago
- Sport
- Evening Standard
Wimbledon 2025: Biggest shocks so far as Grand Slam champions and former world no1 crash out
Perhaps the biggest shock in Wimbledon history came in 1994, when unseeded Lori McNeil became the first player in the Open Era to defeat a defending major champion in the opening round, as she beat the great Steffi Graf in straight sets. At that time, the German had won three consecutive titles at the All England Club.
Time of India
19 hours ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard: Saina Nehwal
If you thought badminton icon Saina Nehwal 's secret was talent gifted by the gods, think again. The former World No. 1, who recently spoke at a school, served up a masterclass not just in sport, but in grit, graft and good old-fashioned gumption. What followed was an hour of refreshingly honest, often humorous insights into the making of India's shuttling superstar. Here's how Saina smashed stereotypes and inspired a hall packed with students—and perhaps a few bashful adults too. From Haryana to Hyderabad: Destiny with a side of discipline 'I didn't set out to be anything. I just loved working hard,' Saina said, recalling how life changed overnight when her father got a promotion and the family moved from Haryana to Hyderabad. What started as a girl simply playing for fun turned into a journey of endless bus rides, crack-of-dawn wake-up calls, and training miles away from home. There was no master plan, no prophecy—just a mother's unwavering belief. 'My mother decided I'd be an Olympian when I was nine. I laughed. She didn't.' It turns out mum knew best. More than talent, tenacity matters Saina is under no illusion about her path. 'I'm not someone like Federer or Tiger Woods. I didn't have that kind of wrist. So I decided, if they train six hours, I'll train ten.' If there was ever a philosophy to pin on your wall (or locker), this was it. Her daily grind involved 25-km commutes (twice a day), training, school, more training. Sleep, repeat. And somewhere in that blur of shuttles and sweat, history was made: Super Series titles, World Championship medals, Olympic glory. The Steffi Graf connection Before badminton, there was karate. 'I'm a brown belt, but getting hit every day wasn't fun at eight,' Saina confessed with a grin. Cue mum's love for tennis and Steffi Graf, and Saina's eventual nickname—Steffi. 'In Haryana, they still call me Steffi,' she laughed. Her entry into badminton was as accidental as it was magical. 'The first shot I played was a smash. Even I was shocked!' Fate, it seems, had a wicked sense of timing. The hidden cost of each medals Behind the medals stood sacrifices most can only imagine. The family took loans to afford equipment and air tickets so Saina could compete without the fatigue of long train journeys. 'My father never let me see the struggles until I was 18,' she shared. And yet, even as she rose through the ranks, Saina never let comfort dull her hunger. From ice baths she loathed to missing movies and shopping trips, it was all part of the package. 'You hate everything at some point—the routine, the sacrifices—but when you're on that podium, nothing else matters.' Beating the boys, not chasing the stars Role models? 'I didn't have any. I just wanted to beat the boys in training,' she said. While the world fawned over sports idols, Saina's world was simpler: work harder, run longer, lift heavier. Only later did she become a fan of Roger Federer and Serena Williams. But if you ask her about her ultimate inspiration, she doesn't blink: 'My mom. She was the one who believed first.' Box: From Badshah to India's President: Saina's unforgettable matches
Time of India
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Steffi Graf flipped the script—and now women everywhere are asking the same question
It happened in the middle of a match. Wimbledon. Summer of '96. The crowd was hushed, the air electric, and Steffi Graf was in the zone—until a man from the stands suddenly yelled, 'Steffi, will you marry me?' Now, this is where you expect the tennis legend to laugh nervously, maybe blow a kiss, or politely ignore the outburst like most celebs do. But Graf? She didn't miss a beat. She turned toward the crowd, raised an eyebrow, and asked the only question that truly matters: 'How much money do you have?' Mic. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Drop. It's been nearly three decades since that cheeky comeback, and yet, somehow, it's having a viral second wind in 2025. The clip has resurfaced (again) on Instagram and TikTok, with Gen Z reacting like it's fresh-off-the-court sass. The comments range from 'Queen behavior' to 'Iconic tennis serve AND verbal serve,' and honestly? They're not wrong. Because in just five words, Graf gave us a meme-worthy moment and flipped the gender script on centuries of romantic clichés. And now, women everywhere are rethinking the age-old fairytale proposal. Flowers? Cute. Diamonds? Sure. But 'How much money do you have?' — that hits different. Love is cute. But can love pay rent? Let's face it: women have been taught to prioritize romance while being expected to stay humble, polite, and most importantly, grateful when someone—anyone—asks for their hand in marriage. The bar has been so low, it's basically underground. Enter Steffi Graf, with her perfect blend of poise and sarcasm, doing what most women wish they could do when a man with zero context offers his 'forever' like it's a coupon. Her question wasn't about being a gold digger. It was about flipping the narrative. For years, women have been evaluated by their looks, homemaking potential, waist-to-hip ratios, or whether they can cook biryani from scratch. Graf turned that lens right back. You want to marry me? Sweetheart, what are you bringing to the table—besides your vocal cords and wishful thinking? Is financial compatibility the new love language? Let's talk facts. Love is amazing. But so is stability, safety, and shared financial values. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now In today's economy (where eggs cost more than gossip), it's no surprise that women are getting more candid about money in relationships. And while Graf was clearly joking, the message behind her words resonates in 2025 louder than ever. Social media is now flooded with relationship 'green flags' and 'icks,' and guess what's trending? Financial responsibility. Not riches, not Ferraris, not private jets—but clarity. Budgeting. Retirement plans. The ability to split a bill without passive-aggressive sighs. Steffi Graf's playful jab may have been decades early, but it predicted the cultural shift: Women don't want vague promises. They want partners who are emotionally intelligent—and financially literate. If men can ask 'Can you cook?', women can ask 'Can you budget?' We've heard it all. 'What's your body count?' 'Do you wear makeup every day?' 'Can you clean?' These are the kinds of questions women have endured on dates, job interviews (yes, really), and family dinners. But the second a woman inverts the question—asks about money, ambition, or retirement savings—suddenly she's 'too much,' 'not romantic,' or worse, 'intimidating.' Steffi Graf didn't giggle or shy away. She shot her shot. And women today? They're learning to do the same. In fact, 'money talk' is becoming a dating milestone. First date: favorite food. Third date: star sign. By date five: 'So... what's your credit score?' Not sexy? Maybe. But necessary? Absolutely. From courtside sass to cultural shift Let's not forget—this was Steffi Graf in her prime. World No. 1. Multiple Grand Slams. She was an icon not just because of her game, but because she knew her worth. And in that moment, her response wasn't just funny—it was strategic. It reasserted control, rewrote the rules, and did it with a wink. It's easy to imagine the same moment today: Serena, Iga, or Coco on court, and some guy yells a public proposal. The difference now is—we expect them to clap back. The internet has made wit and confidence a daily requirement for women who live in the spotlight. And Graf? She was decades ahead of her time. So, what now? Are we saying every woman should ask about her date's bank balance before ordering appetizers? Not exactly. But we are saying it's high time women stopped pretending money doesn't matter. It's not unromantic to want a partner who's stable. It's not superficial to ask real questions. It's not wrong to say, 'I bring a lot to the table—do you?' Because here's the thing: Graf didn't marry that guy in the stands. She married Andre Agassi. Tennis royalty. Multiple titles. Probably had a solid financial planner. Coincidence? Maybe. But also, maybe not. In a world of loud love songs and 'forever' promises, Steffi Graf gave us a line worth framing: 'How much money do you have?' Not as a demand. Not as a test. But as a reminder: love is lovely—but partnership is power. And that power? It's way sexier than a diamond ring.
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Business Standard
07-06-2025
- Sport
- Business Standard
1968 to 2025: Full list of French Open women's singles winners & runner-ups
The women's singles event of the 62nd edition of the iconic tennis Grand Slam tournament, the French Open, came to a close with Coco Gauff winning their maiden clay-court title after defeating World number 1 Aryna Sabalenka in the final of the French Open 2025 on Saturday, 7 June. The French Open, which was previously known as the French Championship before the start of the Open Era back in 1968, has been one of the most challenging titles to win among the tennis Grand Slam events. The USA's Chris Evert holds the record for the most title wins in the Open Era, with seven titles to her name, followed by Steffi Graf with six French Open wins. Iga Swiatek, who walked into the French Open 2025 as the defending champion, is joint third alongside Justine Henin with four titles. She had the chance to go clear but lost the semi-finals of the French Open 2025 to eventual runner-up Aryna Sabalenka. Apart from them, who else has been able to get their hands on the iconic women's singles titles of the French Open? Take a look. Full list of French Open women's singles winners and runner-ups Year Champion Runner-up 1968 Nancy Richey Ann Haydon Jones 1969 Margaret Court Ann Haydon Jones 1970 Margaret Court (2) Helga Niessen 1971 Evonne Goolagong Helen Gourlay 1972 Billie Jean King Evonne Goolagong 1973 Margaret Court (3) Chris Evert 1974 Chris Evert Olga Morozova 1975 Chris Evert (2) Martina Navratilova 1976 Sue Barker Renáta Tomanová 1977 Mima Jaušovec Florența Mihai 1978 Virginia Ruzici Mima Jaušovec 1979 Chris Evert (3) Wendy Turnbull 1980 Chris Evert (4) Virginia Ruzici 1981 Hana Mandlíková Sylvia Hanika 1982 Martina Navratilova Andrea Jaeger 1983 Chris Evert (5) Mima Jaušovec 1984 Martina Navratilova (2) Chris Evert 1985 Chris Evert (6) Martina Navratilova 1986 Chris Evert (7) Martina Navratilova 1987 Steffi Graf Martina Navratilova 1988 Steffi Graf (2) Natasha Zvereva 1989 Arantxa Sánchez Vicario Steffi Graf 1990 Monica Seles Steffi Graf 1991 Monica Seles (2) Arantxa Sánchez Vicario 1992 Monica Seles (3) Steffi Graf 1993 Steffi Graf (3) Mary Joe Fernández 1994 Arantxa Sánchez Vicario (2) Mary Pierce 1995 Steffi Graf (4) Arantxa Sánchez Vicario 1996 Steffi Graf (5) Arantxa Sánchez Vicario 1997 Iva Majoli Martina Hingis 1998 Arantxa Sánchez Vicario (3) Monica Seles 1999 Steffi Graf (6) Martina Hingis 2000 Mary Pierce Conchita Martínez 2001 Jennifer Capriati Kim Clijsters 2002 Serena Williams Venus Williams 2003 Justine Henin Kim Clijsters 2004 Anastasia Myskina Elena Dementieva 2005 Justine Henin (2) Mary Pierce 2006 Justine Henin (3) Svetlana Kuznetsova 2007 Justine Henin (4) Ana Ivanovic 2008 Ana Ivanovic Dinara Safina 2009 Svetlana Kuznetsova Dinara Safina 2010 Francesca Schiavone Samantha Stosur 2011 Li Na Francesca Schiavone 2012 Maria Sharapova Sara Errani 2013 Serena Williams (2) Maria Sharapova 2014 Maria Sharapova (2) Simona Halep 2015 Serena Williams (3) Lucie Šafářová 2016 Garbiñe Muguruza Serena Williams 2017 Jeļena Ostapenko Simona Halep 2018 Simona Halep Sloane Stephens 2019 Ashleigh Barty Markéta Vondroušová 2020 Iga Świątek Sofia Kenin 2021 Barbora Krejčíková Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 2022 Iga Świątek (2) Coco Gauff 2023 Iga Świątek (3) Karolína Muchová 2024 Iga Świątek (4) Jasmine Paolini 2025 Coco Gauff Aryna Sabalenka
