Sporting legends : Ken Rosewall - Aussie iconic tennis legend - Career HLs, video

 

Ken Rosewall born November 2 1934 , a legendary figure in tennis, is celebrated for his remarkable longevity, precision, and graceful style of play. Known for his powerful backhand and relentless determination, Rosewall left an indelible mark on the sport, competing across both the amateur and professional eras and remaining at the top for over two decades.

Style of Play

Backhand: Rosewall was renowned for his one-handed backhand, considered one of the greatest in tennis history. With this shot, he could switch effortlessly between offense and defense, using it to control rallies and hit winners from the baseline.

Consistency and Accuracy: His style was characterized by accuracy, agility, and resilience. He excelled at returning shots with precision and outlasting opponents through consistent play.

Mental Fortitude: Rosewall’s calm and focused demeanor allowed him to withstand high-pressure moments, often turning the tide in difficult matches.

Career Highlights

Grand Slams

Australian Open: 4 titles (1953, 1955, 1971, 1972)

French Open: 2 titles (1953, 1968)

US Open: 2 titles (1956, 1970)

Wimbledon: Though he never won Wimbledon, he reached the final four times (1954, 1956, 1970, 1974), a testament to his consistency on all surfaces.

Rosewall's 8 Grand Slam singles titles across multiple decades made him one of the most decorated players in the sport, and his career longevity is underscored by having won majors both as a teenager and well into his thirties.

Professional Tour Records

Rosewall achieved great success on the professional tour before the Open Era, winning the US Pro titles in 1963, 1965, and 1966, and the Wembley Pro titles in 1957, 1960, 1961, 1962, and 1963.

After the Open Era began in 1968, Rosewall continued to be a top player, winning two Australian Open titles in the early 1970s and maintaining a high world ranking.

Notable Matches

1. 1974 Wimbledon Final vs. Jimmy Connors: Although he lost, reaching the final at the age of 39 against Connors, who was at his peak, solidified his reputation for longevity.

2. 1970 US Open Final vs. Tony Roche: Rosewall’s victory at the age of 35 over the younger Roche was a testament to his experience and skill under pressure.

Accolades and Records

Oldest Grand Slam Champion: Rosewall won his last Grand Slam singles title at age 37, a record in the Open Era that still stands for men’s singles.

Career Titles: Rosewall amassed over 130 career titles, including professional and Open Era tournaments, marking him as one of the most successful players of all time.

International Tennis Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1980, Rosewall’s contributions and excellence were formally recognized.

Legacy

Ken Rosewall’s legacy is defined by his remarkable consistency, sportsmanship, and adaptability across tennis’s most transformative era. Competing against legends from Rod Laver to Björn Borg, Rosewall remains a symbol of class and excellence. His influence endures through players who aspire to emulate his backhand and strategic play, making him a revered icon in the tennis world.

Watch the epic WCT 1972 final between a victorious Ken Rosewall  vs the other Aussie tennis icon Rod Laver