Women's Tennis GOAT
Serena Williams
Steffi Graf
Grand Slam singles titles
Weeks at No. 1
Olympic singles gold
Tour titles
Calendar Golden Slam
The story behind the debate
Serena Williams and Steffi Graf are the leading candidates for the greatest women's singles player of the Open Era. Graf's reign combined speed and a devastating forehand; Williams brought unmatched serving power and resilience across a much longer span.
The case for Serena Williams
Williams possessed one of tennis's greatest serves and could turn defense into attack from either wing. Winning major titles across different generations, including after long interruptions, made her longevity exceptional.
The case for Steffi Graf
Graf's foot speed and inside-out forehand let her control rallies on every surface. She completed the calendar Golden Slam in 1988 and spent more total weeks at world No. 1 than any other woman in the Open Era.
Graf owns the unique calendar Golden Slam and remarkable week-to-week control. Serena's major total, longevity and depth of competition support the argument for the most imposing career.