Sporting icons : Mats Wilander - Career HLs & video of Swede Tennis great

 

Mats Wilander, born on August 22, 1964, in Växjö, Sweden, is hailed as one of the most versatile and intelligent tennis players of his era. Known for his exceptional tactical acumen, remarkable consistency, and cool demeanor on the court, Wilander was a key figure in the golden age of Swedish tennis during the 1980s. His ability to adapt his game to different surfaces and opponents made him a formidable competitor and a multiple Grand Slam champion.

Style of Play

- **All-Court Versatility:**

  - Wilander was renowned for his all-court game, excelling on all surfaces—clay, grass, and hard courts. His game was built around his exceptional baseline consistency, strategic shot selection, and the ability to outthink his opponents.

  - He possessed a strong two-handed backhand, which was a key weapon in his arsenal, and his forehand was reliable and consistent, allowing him to construct points with patience and precision.

- **Mental Toughness and Tactical Intelligence:**

  - Wilander’s greatest strength was his mental fortitude and his ability to adapt his tactics to exploit his opponent’s weaknesses. He was known for his calmness under pressure and his ability to remain focused during long, grueling matches.

  - His approach to the game was methodical, often engaging in extended rallies and waiting for the perfect opportunity to attack.

Career Achievements

- **Grand Slam Titles:**

  - Mats Wilander enjoyed significant success in Grand Slam tournaments, capturing a total of seven singles titles across three different surfaces:

    - **French Open:** 3 titles (1982, 1985, 1988)

    - **Australian Open:** 3 titles (1983, 1984, 1988)

    - **US Open:** 1 title (1988)

  - His triumph at the 1982 French Open was particularly remarkable, as he won the title at just 17 years old, becoming the youngest male player at the time to win a Grand Slam event.

  - In 1988, Wilander had one of the greatest seasons in tennis history, winning three of the four Grand Slam titles (Australian Open, French Open, US Open) and finishing the year as the World No. 1 player.

- **Professional Achievements:**

  - Mats Wilander reached the pinnacle of the ATP rankings, becoming World No. 1 in 1988, a year in which he also helped Sweden win the Davis Cup.

  - Over his career, Wilander won a total of 33 ATP singles titles and 7 doubles titles, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest level in both singles and doubles play.

  - Wilander was also a key member of the Swedish Davis Cup team, contributing to their victories in 1984, 1985, and 1987.

- **Olympics:**

  - Tennis was reintroduced as a full medal sport in the Olympics in 1988, the same year that Wilander reached the peak of his career. However, he did not participate in the Olympic Games, as his focus was on the Grand Slam tournaments and the ATP tour.

 Legacy

- **Key Figure in Swedish Tennis:**

  - Mats Wilander was part of a golden generation of Swedish tennis players that included legends like Björn Borg and Stefan Edberg. His success helped to solidify Sweden’s reputation as a powerhouse in the sport during the 1980s.

  

- **Tactical Mastermind:**

  - Wilander’s legacy is often associated with his intellectual approach to the game. He was a master of strategy and adaptation, qualities that made him one of the most respected players of his time.

- **Enduring Influence:**

  - After retiring from professional tennis, Wilander continued to contribute to the sport as a coach, commentator, and analyst. His insights and experiences have made him a valuable voice in the tennis community.

Mats Wilander’s career is a testament to the power of strategy, consistency, and mental toughness in tennis. His seven Grand Slam titles and his status as one of the best all-around players of his era secure his place among the legends of the sport. Wilander’s influence on tennis extends beyond his playing days, as he remains a respected figure in the world of tennis, admired for both his achievements and his deep understanding of the game.

In the below video , watch hilghlights of Wilander beating strong adversary Ivan Lendl to win the 1988 US Open final