South Africa has been home to some of the greatest tennis players in the world. From the legendary Wayne Ferreira to the more recent Kevin Anderson, South African tennis players have made their mark on the international stage.
Their success has been driven by hard work, dedication, and a deep passion for the game. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best tennis players in South Africa and why they’re so successful.
From their career highlights to their individual strengths, we’ll explore the reasons why South African tennis players have become some of the best in the world.
1. Kevin Anderson
Kevin Michael Anderson is a remarkable South African professional tennis player who has reached a remarkable career-high Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) ranking of world No. 5. This remarkable accomplishment was achieved on 16 July 2018.
This event marks a significant milestone in South African tennis as Anderson is the first South African to be ranked in the top 5 since Kevin Curren was No. 5 on 23 September 1985.
This impressive feat highlights Anderson’s dedication to tennis and his remarkable ability to rise to the top of the game. His success has been an inspiration to many and has shown that South African tennis players can compete and succeed at the highest level.
Anderson is a true ambassador for South African tennis and will no doubt continue to climb the rankings and make his country proud.
2. Wayne Ferreira
Wayne Richard Ferreira is a former professional tennis player who hails from South Africa. He has enjoyed a successful career as a tennis player, having reached the quarterfinals of the Australian Open, the French Open, and the US Open, as well as the semifinals of Wimbledon.
He also holds the record for the most consecutive Grand Slam appearances, having competed in 56 consecutive Grand Slam tournaments. He has won 16 singles titles and 11 doubles titles in his career.
After retiring from professional tennis in 2008, Ferreira has become a successful tennis coach. He is currently the head coach of the South African Davis Cup team and has coached many of South Africa’s top players, such as Kevin Anderson and Raven Klaasen.
He has also served as a coach for the South African Fed Cup team and the South African Olympic team.
3. Kevin Curren
Kevin Melvyn Curren was an incredibly successful South African professional tennis player. He reached the pinnacle of his career in July 1985 when he achieved a singles ranking of world No. 5.
This was an impressive feat, considering the competitive nature of tennis, particularly at the highest level. During his career, Curren won an impressive 5 singles titles and an even more remarkable 16 doubles titles.
His two Grand Slam singles finals appearances are a testament to his skill and determination on the court.
His four Grand Slam doubles titles demonstrate his ability to succeed in both singles and doubles tennis. Curren’s success on the court is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the game.
His impressive singles and doubles record is a reminder of what can be achieved when one puts in the effort and dedication to reach their goals.
4. Johan Kriek
Johan Christiaan Kriek is a remarkable individual who has made a lasting impact on the world.
He is a retired professional tennis player from South Africa who has gone on to found the Global Water Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing clean water to the world’s neediest communities.
This organization works to bring clean water to those regions that are not privileged enough to have access to clean drinking water. Kriek is an inspiration to many due to his dedication to helping those in need.
He has made it his life’s work to bring clean water to the world’s poorest regions and his organization is doing just that. His organization works hard to build and maintain water systems for communities in need.
They have also implemented education and awareness campaigns to teach people how to maintain their water systems and how to use them safely and responsibly. The success of the Global Water Foundation is evidence of Kriek’s tireless dedication to his cause.
He has worked hard to bring clean and safe water to communities for many years. His mission is to bring clean water to the world’s neediest communities and he has made it his life’s work.
His organization has made a real difference in the lives of those in need and will continue to do so for years to come.
5. Cliff Drysdale
Eric Clifford Drysdale was a talented South African tennis player who competed in the 1960s and early 1970s. His career was highly successful, and he was ranked highly among professional players.
After his playing career, Eric Clifford Drysdale then became a well-known tennis announcer. Eric Clifford Drysdale’s accomplishments on the court include winning the singles title at the Dutch Open in Hilversum in 1963 and 1964.
This was a highly impressive feat, as the Dutch Open is one of the world’s oldest tournaments and is considered to be one of the most significant international tennis events.
This success highlights Eric Clifford Drysdale’s skill as a tennis player and the respect he had earned from fellow players. After leaving the court, Eric Clifford Drysdale became a celebrated tennis announcer.
His knowledge and experience of the game meant that he was the perfect person to provide commentary on matches, and he was able to use his expertise to provide insightful and entertaining coverage.
His commentary was well-received by viewers, and Eric Clifford Drysdale was a popular figure in the world of tennis. Eric Clifford Drysdale’s career as a tennis player and announcer is an impressive one.
He was a highly successful professional tennis player in the 1960s and 1970s, and his success at the Dutch Open is a testament to his skill.
After his playing career, he then went on to become a popular tennis announcer, using his knowledge and expertise to provide interesting and entertaining commentary. Eric Clifford Drysdale is a highly respected figure in the world of tennis.
6. Amanda Coetzer
Amanda Coetzer was a successful tennis player from South Africa. She was a consistent presence in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) rankings and was listed in the top 20 for ten consecutive seasons. She achieved her highest ranking, world number 3, during this period.
Her impressive career also saw her reach three Grand Slam semifinals and one Grand Slam doubles final. Her impressive career speaks to her skill and determination as a professional player. Coetzer’s success was not limited to reaching the semifinals and final of Grand Slams.
She was also a consistent presence in the WTA rankings, reaching the top 20 for 10 consecutive seasons. This record speaks to her ability as a player and her commitment to the sport.
She was the first South African woman to reach the top 10 in the rankings and was the first South African woman to reach the quarterfinals of a Grand Slam tournament. Amanda Coetzer was an important figure in the history of South African tennis.
Her consistent success on the court and her impressive record in the WTA rankings is a testament to her hard work and dedication to the sport.
She was a role model for many aspiring players, and her career serves as an inspiration for future generations of South African tennis players.
7. Frew McMillan
Frew Donald McMillan was a highly successful professional tennis player from South Africa. He holds the record for winning the most grand slam doubles titles, having won five in total, including three at Wimbledon with partner Bob Hewitt.
In total, McMillan won 63 doubles titles, putting him in the top group of successful professional doubles players, behind only the Bryan brothers, Daniel Nestor, Mark Woodforde, Todd Woodbridge, John McEnroe and Tom Okker.McMillan’s impressive record of success on the court is a result of his hard work and dedication.
He was a consummate professional, who placed an emphasis on technique and strategy. He was known for his aggressive playing style, which was backed up by his strong serve and net play.
In addition to this, his ability to read the court and anticipate his opponents’ next move was a major factor in his success.McMillan also had a knack for finding successful partnerships.
His most successful partnership was with Bob Hewitt, with whom he won three Wimbledon titles.
Together, the two formed a formidable duo, and their successes at Wimbledon and other grand slams helped to cement McMillan as one of the all-time great doubles players.McMillan’s legacy is one of success and dominance.
His 63 doubles titles put him in the top echelon of professional doubles players, and his record of five grand slam titles is a testament to his skill and competitive spirit. McMillan’s career is one that will be remembered for generations to come.
8. Sandra Reynolds
Sandra Reynolds Price was a very successful tennis player from South Africa. She won four Grand Slam women’s doubles championships and one Grand Slam mixed doubles championship in her career.
Price was especially successful in singles competition, reaching the 1960 Wimbledon final. Unfortunately, she lost to Maria Bueno by a score of 8–6, 6–0.
Despite this loss, Price’s achievements in singles and doubles make her one of the most successful South African tennis players of all time. She was an inspiration to many, showing that you can achieve great things no matter where you come from.
Price will always be remembered for her accomplishments and her commitment to the sport.
9. Lloyd Harris
Lloyd George Muirhead Harris is a professional tennis player from South Africa. He is currently the highest-ranked African and South African tennis player in the men’s singles division, as of September 2021.
His ranking, as given by the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP), stands at world number 31, which is an impressive feat given the competitive nature of tennis.
Harris is a formidable player with a strong serve and powerful groundstrokes, which have enabled him to reach the heights he has attained. He has been a regular on the ATP tour for several years now, and his consistent performance has seen him rise to the top of the rankings.
Harris is an inspiration and a role model for aspiring tennis players from South Africa and all over Africa. His success has been a source of motivation for many, and he is an example of what can be achieved through hard work and determination.
10. Ilana Kloss
Ilana Sheryl Kloss is an impressive figure in the world of tennis. She is an accomplished former professional tennis player, having achieved a world ranking of No. 1 in doubles in 1976 and No. 19 in singles in 1979.
She also served as a tennis coach and commissioner of World Team Tennis from 2001-21. Kloss has a decorated tennis career that is marked by her success on the court. As a professional player, she reached the summit of the doubles rankings, becoming the World No. 1 in 1976.
This was followed up with a singles ranking of World No. 19 in 1979. Kloss also had a successful career as a coach, where she trained some of the best players in the world.
She was also the commissioner of World TeamTennis from 2001-21, a role in which she was responsible for overseeing the organization and its associated tournaments. Kloss’s commitment to the game of tennis is undeniable, and her accomplishments both on and off the court make her a highly respected figure in the sport.
She is an example of how dedication and hard work can lead to success, and her legacy will always be remembered in the world of tennis.
11. Bob Hewitt
Robert Anthony John Hewitt is an esteemed former professional tennis player from Australia.
He is renowned for his impressive achievements in the sport, having won 15 major titles and a career Grand Slam in both men’s and mixed doubles. Hewitt began his career as an Australian tennis player, but in 1967, he married a South African and became a South African citizen.
This transition allowed him to explore different opportunities in the sport, and with the help of his new nationality, he achieved incredible success.
His career Grand Slam in both the men’s and mixed doubles is a testament to his talent and dedication. Since the conclusion of his professional career, Hewitt has been involved in grassroots tennis.
He works to educate and inspire young players, offering support and advice to those looking to pursue the game.
He has also made a number of appearances in celebrity matches, helping to raise money for charity. Hewitt’s talent and commitment to the sport have earned him recognition and respect among the tennis community.
His impressive achievements, combined with his dedication to helping others, have made him an icon in the sport.
12. Liezel Huber
Liezel Huber is a remarkable female athlete who has experienced great success in the world of tennis. She is a South African American who has been representing the United States since August 2007.
Huber has achieved an impressive four Grand Slam titles in women’s doubles with partner Cara Black. She has also won one Grand Slam title with partner Lisa Raymond and two mixed doubles titles with Bob Bryan.
This is an impressive feat that has solidified her place as one of the greatest tennis players in the world. Huber’s success on the court is a testament to her hard work and dedication over the years. She has trained and competed tirelessly in order to achieve her goal.
Huber has demonstrated her skill in both singles and doubles play, winning titles in both.
Her success has earned her recognition in the tennis world and has inspired other athletes to pursue their dreams. Huber’s success has inspired not only athletes but also fans of the sport. Her hard work and commitment to the game have been a source of motivation for many.
Her impressive record of titles serves as a reminder that hard work pays off and that dreams can become reality. Her career is an example of how dedication and perseverance can lead to success, no matter what the odds.
13. Harold Kitson
Harry Austin Kitson was an incredibly accomplished tennis player from South Africa. He was a top athlete in his time, having won a gold medal at the men’s doubles event during the 1912 Summer Olympics.
He was part of the South African team that competed in the Olympics that year and emerged victorious. Kitson was a true champion, competing against the best players in the world and coming out on top.
He was known as a talented player, displaying great skill and finesse on the court. His success on the court was a huge accomplishment for South Africa and was celebrated throughout the country. Kitson went on to become a successful tennis coach after his playing days were over.
He taught tennis to aspiring players in South Africa, helping to develop the sport in the country. He was a great ambassador for the game, and his legacy still lives on today. Harry Austin Kitson was an incredible athlete and a true champion.
His success at the 1912 Summer Olympics was a major victory for South Africa and his accomplishments will never be forgotten. He was a great ambassador for the sport of tennis, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players.
14. Danie Visser
Danie Visser is an accomplished former professional tennis player from South Africa. He was especially successful as a doubles specialist and achieved a great deal of success throughout his career.
Visser’s most noteworthy achievements were winning three Grand Slam men’s doubles titles, as well as reaching the world’s number-one doubles ranking in January 1990.
Visser’s Grand Slam victories included the 1989 Australian Open title alongside partner Piet Norval, as well as the 1989 French Open and 1990 Wimbledon titles with partner John-Laffnie de Jager.
These victories solidified Visser’s place as a top doubles player, and his success in the Grand Slam tournaments quickly earned him recognition as a rising talent.
Visser’s success continued to grow, and his impressive performances on the court culminated in January 1990, when he became the world’s No. 1 ranked doubles player.
This accomplishment was a testament to Visser’s hard work and dedication and marked an impressive milestone in his career. In addition to his victories in Grand Slam tournaments and his world No. 1 ranking, Danie Visser also won several other titles in ATP Tour events.
He had a total of 17 career doubles titles, 11 of which were won alongside his regular partner John-Laffnie de Jager. Overall, Danie Visser’s successes on the court speak for themselves. His achievements in the Grand Slam tournaments, as well as his world No.
1 ranking, are a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport of tennis.
15. Christo van Rensburg
Christo van Rensburg was a professional tennis player from South Africa. He began his professional career in 1983 and achieved success early on in his career. That same year, he won his first ATP Tour doubles title at Cleveland.
This was a remarkable feat for someone who had just started playing professionally, and it set him up for a successful career. Van Rensburg was a formidable player on the court. He had an impressive serve and forehand that allowed him to overpower his opponents.
He was also very agile and had great reflexes, which helped him to be successful. Van Rensburg’s career saw him compete in many tournaments around the world. He won several singles titles, including the South African Open in 1984, and a doubles title at the 1985 French Open.
He made it to the semifinals of the 1985 US Open and the 1986 French Open. He also represented South Africa in several Davis Cup ties. Overall, Christo van Rensburg was a successful professional tennis player. He achieved a lot during his career and was respected by his peers.
His early success at the 1983 ATP Tour doubles title in Cleveland was a sign of things to come, and he went on to have a successful career on the court.
16. Wesley Moodie
Wesley Moodie is a former professional tennis player from South Africa who achieved great success in the sport. He was especially successful in doubles, having won the 2005 Wimbledon Men’s Doubles title with his partner, Stephen Huss.
This win was significant for African tennis, as it was the first time an all-African team had won the Wimbledon Men’s Doubles title. Moodie began to play tennis at a young age and was quickly identified as a promising talent.
He turned professional in 1997 and achieved several notable accomplishments in his career, including winning the Queen’s Club Championships in 2004 and reaching the final of the 2003 Australian Open.
Other highlights in his career include a semifinal appearance in the 2001 French Open and a quarterfinal appearance in the 2004 US Open. Moodie was also successful on the doubles circuit, where he achieved his greatest success.
He won a total of six doubles titles, including the 2005 Wimbledon title with Huss. This win was a significant milestone in African tennis, as it was the first time an all-African team had won the title.
Overall, Wesley Moodie is a former professional tennis player from South Africa who achieved great success in the sport. He is best remembered for being the first all-African team to win the Wimbledon Men’s Doubles title in 2005.
17. John-Laffnie de Jager
John-Laffnie de Jager is an accomplished former tour professional tennis player from South Africa. He was a doubles specialist and achieved impressive results throughout his career.
He reached the semi-finals for three different grand slam tournaments a remarkable three times in three different years. Each time, he was partnered with a different South African player, demonstrating his versatility and skill in the sport.
De Jager’s successes in the sport are all the more impressive as he consistently achieved results with different partners. His ability to adapt to different playing styles and to work well with different partners is a testament to his talent as a doubles player.
He was able to make it to the semi-finals in three different grand slams over the course of three years, a feat that is very rare for any player, regardless of their specialty.
De Jager is a prime example of a successful South African tennis player, and his accomplishments are a source of pride for his country.
His success in the sport shows that South African players have the ability to compete at the highest levels of the game and to achieve impressive results.
His career is a reminder of the talent that can be found in South Africa and serves as a source of motivation for future generations of South African players.
18. Marcos Ondruska
Marcos Ondruska is a former professional tennis player from South Africa. He began his professional career in 1989 and was a successful tennis player for the next several years. He even represented his native country at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia.
In the first round, he achieved a remarkable victory by beating Goran Ivanišević. However, he was ultimately defeated by Norway’s Christian Ruud in the next round.
Throughout his career, Ondruska managed to achieve several accolades, including two singles titles on the ATP Tour, as well as three doubles titles. He also held a career-high singles ranking of world number 45 in 1995.
Ondruska’s impressive playing style and great competitive spirit made him a great ambassador for South African tennis. He was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2020, in recognition of his outstanding accomplishments.
Ondruska’s legacy continues to this day with his name being celebrated in the tennis community as one of the greatest players of his generation. His impressive accomplishments on the court will surely inspire future generations of tennis players.
19. Piet Norval
Pieter Norval is a former professional tennis player from South Africa. He began his career in 1988 when he decided to turn professional.
During his career, Norval achieved many successes, but his most impressive accomplishment was winning the mixed doubles at the French Open in 1999. This major win was a huge milestone in his career, and it highlighted his skill in the sport.
Norval was a talented player, and his win at the French Open demonstrated his prowess in the sport. His success in the tournament was a testament to his determination and dedication to the sport.
20. Bob Maud
Robert Roy Maud was an accomplished South African tennis player who made his mark on the international stage. He was born in South Africa and began playing tennis at a young age.
He was a talented player, and it wasn’t long before he was competing in tournaments and gaining recognition for his skills. At the age of 18, Maud made his debut in the Davis Cup, the premier international team tennis competition.
His presence in the South African squad was instrumental in leading them to their only victory in the Davis Cup in 1974.
This victory was a major achievement for South Africa, and Maud’s contribution to the team was widely recognized. Maud went on to have a successful tennis career, competing in numerous tournaments and making a name for himself as a formidable player.
He was a strong competitor and a tactical player who was respected by his peers. His contribution to South African tennis was immense, and his legacy is still remembered today.
21. Pieter Aldrich
Pieter Aldrich is a renowned former professional tennis player from South Africa. He was a doubles specialist, and his exceptional skill in doubles tennis earned him two Grand Slam Men’s Doubles titles, as well as the distinction of becoming the world No.
1 doubles tennis player in 1990.
This accomplishment is a testament to Aldrich’s immense skill and determination as a professional tennis player, and his success in the game has been an inspiration to many aspiring tennis players all over the world. Aldrich has been an exceptional figure in the tennis world, not only for his remarkable achievements but also for his inspiring story.
He was born in South Africa and began playing tennis at an early age, demonstrating a natural talent for the game that would eventually lead him to greatness. His commitment to the sport saw him rise to the top of the world rankings, eventually becoming the world No.
1 in doubles tennis in 1990.
His remarkable run of success also included two Grand Slam Men’s Doubles titles, further solidifying his place among the greatest tennis players of all time. Pieter Aldrich has since retired from professional tennis, but his legacy still remains strong.
His accomplishments on the court have left an indelible mark on the sport and continue to inspire future generations of tennis players.
His story is a testament to the power of commitment and hard work, and his success is a reminder to us all that anything is possible if we put our minds to it.
22. Eric Sturgess
Eric William Sturgess was a renowned South African male tennis player who won six Grand Slam doubles titles during his career.
He established himself as one of the premier players of the era by reaching the singles final of a Grand Slam tournament three times, but unfortunately never managed to win one. Sturgess was highly regarded for his achievements and was rewarded by being ranked World No.
6 by John Olliff of The Daily Telegraph in both 1948 and 1949. This showed the level of recognition he had achieved amongst his peers and the respect he had earned from the tennis world.
Sturgess was an incredibly successful player who achieved great success in doubles competitions, winning six Grand Slam titles in total. He also managed to reach the singles final of a Grand Slam tournament on three occasions but never won the title.
This is a testament to his skill and determination as a player and one that earned him the admiration of the tennis world. His talent was further acknowledged with his two-time ranking as the World No. 6 by John Olliff of The Daily Telegraph in 1948 and 1949.
This was a major achievement for Sturgess and showed the immense respect he had gained from the tennis world. Eric William Sturgess was an incredibly successful South African male tennis player who won six Grand Slam doubles titles and achieved a world ranking of No. 6.
He also reached the singles final of a Grand Slam tournament three times but unfortunately never won the title. His skill and determination were greatly admired and respected by the tennis world and he will be remembered as one of the premier players of the era.
23. Gary Muller
Gary Muller is a former professional South African tennis player who had a very successful career in the sport. He began his professional career in 1985 and quickly established himself as a top-tier player.
Over the course of his 12-year career, he achieved several impressive victories against some of the biggest names in the game, including Andre Agassi, Jim Courier, Michael Chang, and Stefan Edberg.
Muller was especially successful on the clay courts, where he used his strong serve and powerful groundstrokes to overpower his opponents.
In addition to his singles successes, Muller also had a successful career in doubles, where he won multiple titles with his regular partner, Grant Connell. After retiring from professional tennis in 1997, Muller began coaching the South African Davis Cup team.
He has since become a respected commentator and analyst for various tennis tournaments.
24. Raymond Moore
Raymond J. “Ray” Moore was a successful professional tennis player from South Africa. He achieved a significant victory in June 1966, when he won the East Gloucestershire Championships at Cheltenham on grass.
To reach the final, Moore had to defeat two strong opponents, Tom Okker and Dick Crealy, in the two rounds prior to the final. Moore was able to prevail and win the title, demonstrating his skill and determination.
This win was a milestone for Moore, as it proved his abilities as a tennis player and made him a well-known figure in the tennis world. He was respected for his accomplishments and his success in the sport.
Moore’s victory in June 1966 was a great achievement and a testament to his hard work and dedication.
25. Neville Godwin
Neville Godwin is a former professional tennis player from South Africa. He made the switch to professional tennis in 1994, and in March 1997, he achieved his highest individual ranking on the ATP Tour, becoming the 90th-best tennis player in the world.
That same year, he won his only singles title. In addition to his singles career, Godwin also had success in doubles. His highest world ranking in doubles was number 57. This indicates that Godwin was able to have a successful career in both singles and doubles tennis.
Godwin’s success in professional tennis is an impressive feat, especially considering the competitive nature of the sport. His ability to reach a high ranking in both singles and doubles is a testament to his skill and determination.
His career serves as an inspiration for up-and-coming tennis players, showing that it is possible to reach the top of the game with hard work and dedication.
26. Louis Raymond
Louis Bosman Raymond was an incredibly successful tennis player from South Africa. He was most well known for his victory at the 1920 Summer Olympics in Antwerp, Belgium. In the finals, he defeated Ichiya Kumagai to win the gold medal.
This was a huge feat, as he was the first South African athlete to win a gold medal at the Olympics. In addition to his Olympic success, Louis Bosman Raymond also had a successful career on the court in South Africa.
He won the South African Championships six times, including four consecutive titles from 1921 through 1924, as well as victories in 1930 and 1931. This is a testament to his skill and dedication, and his name will forever be remembered in the history of tennis and South Africa.
27. David Adams
David Dixie Adams is a former professional tennis player from South Africa. He began his career as a professional player in 1989 and had a successful career in doubles. Adams won 19 doubles titles and was a runner-up 33 times in his career.
His most notable achievement in doubles was finishing as runner-up at the French Open in 1992. At the peak of his career, Adams achieved a career-high doubles ranking of world No. 9 in February 1994.
This ranking shows that he was one of the top 10 doubles players in the world at that time. Throughout his playing career, Adams was known for his strong backhand and his ability to return difficult shots.
He also had a solid serve which allowed him to take advantage of opportunities to close out points. Adams was able to use his skill set to great success, as evidenced by his impressive win/loss record in doubles.
David Dixie Adams is a great example of a player who was able to make the most of his talents. His career accomplishments speak for themselves, as he was able to reach the top 10 in the world in doubles.
Adams will be remembered for the strong play he displayed during his career, and his legacy will live on as an example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication.
28. David Nainkin
David Nainkin is a former professional tennis player from South Africa who has left an impressive mark in the world of tennis.
Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Nainkin had a successful career as a tennis player, reaching a career-high ranking of 75th in the world in singles and 44th in doubles.
Nainkin won two singles titles and seven doubles titles during his career and represented South Africa in the Davis Cup.
He also played in the main draw of all four Grand Slam tournaments, reaching the fourth round of the French Open in 1998. Nainkin played a key role in the development of South African tennis, and even after retiring from professional tennis, he remained involved in the sport.
He served as the Davis Cup captain for South Africa from 2005 to 2008 and was the head coach of the South African Fed Cup team in 2009.
He also served as a coach for a number of professional tennis players, including Kevin Anderson and Rik de Voest. Nainkin’s impact on South African tennis has been significant, and his legacy continues to influence the sport today.
He is respected by his peers and beloved by the fans, and his work has had a lasting effect on the sport in South Africa.
29. Mark Kaplan
Mark Kaplan is a South African professional tennis player who achieved a career-high singles ranking of 117 on June 25, 1990. He also reached a career-high doubles ranking of 219. During his college years, he formed a successful doubles partnership with Richard Lubner.
Kaplan was born and raised in South Africa and began playing tennis at a young age. He quickly gained recognition for his talent and was soon competing in tournaments across the country. As he honed his skills, he earned several titles in singles and doubles competitions.
He had the opportunity to travel and play tennis abroad, and it was during this time that Kaplan achieved his highest singles ranking of 117. In addition to his singles successes, Kaplan was also a formidable doubles player.
His college doubles partner, Richard Lubner, was a key part of Kaplan’s success. Together, they reached a career-high doubles ranking of 219. Their partnership was so successful that they were considered one of the top college doubles teams in South Africa.
Mark Kaplan has proved to be a successful professional tennis player, rising to a top ranking of 117 in singles and 219 in doubles.
His success has been in part due to his doubles partnership with Richard Lubner, which helped him reach the highest level of achievement in his career.
30. Izak van der Merwe
Izak van der Merwe is a retired South African tennis player who achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of 113 on 1 August 2011.
Van der Merwe represented South Africa at the Davis Cup, and he has said that he modeled his style of play after the former Wimbledon champion, Pete Sampras. Van der Merwe has had a long and successful career in tennis.
He started playing the sport at a young age and quickly developed a reputation for his strong, attacking style of play. His hard work and dedication paid off, as he was able to reach a career-high singles ranking of 113.
This accomplishment made him one of the top players in South Africa and earned him a spot on the South African Davis Cup team. Van der Merwe has always been an admirer of Pete Sampras, and he has often cited the former Wimbledon champion as one of his biggest influences.
He has said that he tries to emulate Sampras’ playing style, which is characterized by a powerful serve and an aggressive net attack.
While he never achieved the same level of success as Sampras, Van der Merwe did manage to have a successful career, and he is now retired as one of the most respected South African tennis players.
31. Byron Talbot
Byron Talbot is a former professional tennis player who hails from South Africa. He was most successful in doubles, winning seven titles and finishing runner-up six times.
His highest world ranking in doubles was number 20 back in 1996, a remarkable achievement given the talent of the players he was competing against. Talbot was a well-respected player and an important figure in South African tennis.
He is remembered for his ability to read the game and for his unselfish attitude when playing doubles. He was also known for his tenacity and his never-say-die attitude. Talbot was an inspirational figure for many players and an important part of the sport for many years.
32. Lan Bale
Lan Bale is an extraordinary South African athlete who had a successful career as a professional tennis player. He was a master of playing doubles, which was demonstrated by the four titles he won and the four runner-up finishes he achieved.
His peak performance was in 1995 when he reached the world No. 27 ranking for doubles. Bale’s success began early in his career. He won his first doubles title as early as 1991 and continued winning over the years, proving that he was a force to be reckoned with on the court.
He also enjoyed great success in the doubles tournaments, finishing runner-up four times. This consistent performance earned him a career-high doubles ranking of world No. 27 in 1995. Bale’s success on the court was a testament to his hard work and dedication.
He was willing to put in the time and effort to reach the top, and his commitment paid off. His impressive performance is a reminder to aspiring athletes that hard work and dedication can take you far.
33. Trevor Fancutt
Trevor Fancutt was a South African tennis player who achieved a significant sporting accomplishment in 1960. Alongside his partner Jan Lehane, Fancutt won the mixed doubles title of the Australian Championships.
This victory was a remarkable achievement, as the pair managed to defeat their opponents Christine Truman and Martin Mulligan in straight sets. This meant that they won all of the sets they played against their competitors, without dropping a single set.
Fancutt and Lehane remained a formidable team throughout the tournament, showcasing strong teamwork and impressive individual talent.
Their victory was a sign that South African tennis players could compete at the highest level, and the pair’s success proved to be an inspiration to many.
Although Fancutt’s tennis career did not reach the same heights again, his win at the Australian Championships was a remarkable achievement which is still remembered today.
34. Craig Campbell
Craig Campbell is a former professional tennis player from South Africa. He began playing tennis at a young age and eventually rose through the ranks to become a professional.
Campbell had a successful career, competing in some of the top tournaments in the world and winning several titles. He was a top-ranked singles player in South Africa and a highly regarded doubles player.
Throughout his career, Craig Campbell was known for his powerful serve and aggressive style of play. He was also known for his mental and physical toughness and was able to remain competitive even in the face of adversity.
Campbell was an inspirational figure to many aspiring tennis players in South Africa and served as a coach and mentor to many of them. Sadly, Campbell’s career was cut short due to injury. He had to retire in 2014 due to a persistent shoulder injury.
Despite this, his legacy lives on in the tennis community. He is remembered for his hard work, determination, and passion for the sport of tennis. Craig Campbell’s influence and impact in the sport of tennis is undeniable, and his memory will live on for years to come.
35. Raven Klaasen
Raven Klaasen is an accomplished professional tennis player from South Africa who has made a name for himself in the world of doubles. He broke into the international scene in August 2019, when he rose to his highest doubles ranking of world number seven.
Since then, he has gone on to win 19 doubles titles on the ATP Tour, two of which were at the prestigious Masters 1000 level. Klaasen has been a consistent presence in the top rankings, a feat he has achieved through dedication and hard work.
He has represented his country in the Davis Cup and won the gold medal in the doubles event at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
He has also partnered with world-renowned tennis players such as Bob Bryan, Mike Bryan, and Rohan Bopanna to win numerous titles. Klaasen’s impressive career is inspiring for aspiring tennis players, as it shows that with hard work and determination, success is achievable.
He has shown that no matter where you come from if you set your mind to it, it is possible to make a name for yourself in the world of tennis. He is a fine example of how dedication and commitment can help one reach their goals.
36. Joannette Kruger
Joannette Kruger is a former professional tennis player who was born in Johannesburg, South Africa. Kruger began her professional career in 1989, but it was not until 1992 that she finally cracked into the top 100 players in the world. She achieved her highest ranking of No.
21 in the world on the 4th of May 1998. This ranking placed her among the elite of professional tennis. Kruger was a successful professional tennis player, having made a name for herself in the international tennis circuit.
She was known for her aggressive and powerful style of play, using her strong serve and powerful groundstrokes to dominate her opponents. She was also known for her consistency, having been able to maintain a high ranking in the world rankings for a good number of years.
Kruger’s professional career came to an end in 2002 when she announced her retirement from professional tennis. Despite this, she left a lasting legacy in the sport, having been one of the first South African players to reach the top 100 in the world rankings.
Kruger’s success also inspired many other South African players to take up the sport and reach the same heights she achieved. In conclusion, Joannette Kruger was a successful professional tennis player from South Africa who reached the world’s top 100 rankings.
She achieved her highest ranking of No. 21 in the world on the 4th of May 1998 and left a lasting legacy in the sport with her aggressive yet powerful style of play.
She retired from professional tennis in 2002, but her success inspired many other South African players to take up the sport.
37. Mariaan de Swardt
Mariaan de Swardt was an accomplished tennis player who represented South Africa in international tournaments for over a decade. She was active in the sport from 1988 to 2001 and competed in two Summer Olympics, 1992 and 1996, as a South African athlete.
During this time, she was also a member of her country’s Fed Cup team from 1992 to 1997. After her retirement from professional tennis, de Swardt furthered her career by becoming a U.S. citizen in 2006.
This showcased her commitment to her sport, as well as her desire to take part in the opportunities offered in the United States. Her dedication to tennis and her country is an inspiring example of what can be accomplished through hard work and determination.
38. Elna Reinach
Elna Reinach is a former professional tennis player from South Africa. She had a successful career, highlighted by her 1994 US Open mixed doubles championship win with Patrick Galbraith. Reinach also had the honor of representing her country in the 1992 Summer Olympics.
Her career was further distinguished when she and Danie Visser achieved runner-up status at the 1993 French Open. This was a remarkable feat, considering the level of competition and the amount of high-caliber players in the tournament.
Reinach is a great example of a South African athlete who had success in the international arena. She was able to overcome the odds and prove that South African athletes are capable of competing with the best players in the world.
39. Rik de Voest
Rik de Voest is a former professional tennis player who hails from South Africa. During his career, he achieved his highest singles ranking of world No. 110 in August 2006.
After his professional tennis career ended, he moved to Vancouver, Canada to pursue a career in real estate. Rik de Voest had a successful tennis career. He was known for his hard-hitting groundstrokes and his quick footwork on the court.
His powerful forehand was a key part of his success on the court and he won many matches with it. He was also a very consistent player and his ability to remain composed in tough situations allowed him to overcome opponents.
After his career in tennis, Rik de Voest moved to Vancouver, Canada to pursue a career in real estate. He has found success in this field and is now a well-respected real estate investor.
He has a passion for helping others find the perfect home and helping them make their dreams of homeownership a reality. He provides his clients with guidance through the entire process, from researching the market to making offers and finally signing contracts.
Rik de Voest is a great example of someone who has taken their passion and used it to create a successful career. He has taken his knowledge and experience from his time as a professional tennis player and applied it to the world of real estate.
He is a motivated and driven individual who is committed to helping others achieve their dreams.
40. Eddie Edwards
Eddie Edwards was a professional tennis player who made his mark on the tour from the mid-1970s to 1987. A right-handed player, Edwards competed in singles events held at Grand Prix and Grand Slam tournaments.
He participated in a total of 112 Grand Prix events and 24 Grand Slam tournaments throughout his career. Edwards was known for his powerful groundstrokes and smooth volleys.
He was a consistent competitor, making it to the quarterfinals or better in many of the tournaments he played in.
After retiring from competitive tennis, Edwards has become a popular commentator and instructor, passing on his wisdom and knowledge to the next generation of tennis stars.
41. Byron Bertram
Byron Bertram is a former professional tennis player from South Africa. He is a highly accomplished athlete, having achieved a career-high singles ranking of world No. 51 in July 1976.
This ranking is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport. Bertram received his education at Parktown Boys’ High School. During his time as a professional tennis player, Bertram won one tour doubles title.
This is an impressive feat and one that speaks to his skill and competitive drive. Bertram’s time in South African tennis is a testament to his success and dedication to the sport. His career-high singles ranking of world No.
51 is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport. His tour doubles title shows his competitive spirit and desire to succeed. Bertram is an example of what hard work and dedication can achieve.
42. Bernard Mitton
Bernard Mitton was a professional tennis player from South Africa who achieved success at the international level. He began competing professionally in the mid-1970s and achieved his highest singles ranking of world No. 51 on December 15, 1975.
This put him in the upper echelon of professional tennis players, as the sport has a long history of success in South Africa. Mitton’s success on the court continued into the 1980s as he achieved his highest doubles ranking of 20 on June 25, 1984.
His accomplishments in doubles were even more impressive considering the fact that doubles matches often require a great deal of teamwork and communication between partners.
His success in the sport earned him widespread recognition and admiration from both fans and fellow athletes. Mitton’s legacy continues to live on, as he is remembered as one of the greatest tennis players to come out of South Africa.
He is an inspiration to many athletes, not just in South Africa, but across the world. His success serves as a reminder that hard work and dedication can help one achieve great things in life.
43. Deon Joubert
Deon Joubert is a former professional tennis player from South Africa. Born in 1975, Joubert excelled in tennis from an early age and soon found himself ranked amongst the top juniors in the region.
After graduating high school, Joubert began to pursue a professional career, competing in international tournaments and rising through the ranks. Joubert was best known for his strong serve and powerful forehand, which allowed him to be successful on the professional court.
He went on to represent South Africa in Davis Cup and other international competitions. Joubert’s career came to an end in 2004 when he retired from professional tennis due to health issues.
Since retiring, Joubert has taken up a career in coaching and remains a prominent figure in South African tennis. He has served as a mentor to many young players, helping them develop their game and reach their potential.
Joubert’s legacy lives on through the current players of South African tennis, who strive to emulate his success.
44. Christo Steyn
Jan Christoffel ‘Christo’ Steyn is a former South African tennis player who enjoyed success during his professional career. He made his debut on the South African tennis scene in the early 1980s and quickly made a name for himself.
He quickly rose to prominence and was considered one of the top players in the country. In his career, Steyn won two Grand Prix doubles titles and was a consistent presence at the highest levels of tennis. He was known for his aggressive playing style and powerful serve.
He was also known for his strong mental game, which allowed him to remain focused during some of the most important matches of his career. Steyn also competed in singles events, though he was never able to replicate the success he had in doubles.
He retired from professional tennis in the late 1990s, but his legacy still lives on in South African tennis. He is remembered as one of the best players to ever come out of South Africa and as one of the most successful to ever take part in Grand Prix doubles.
45. Barry Moir
Barry Moir is a retired professional tennis player from South Africa. He enjoyed a successful career on the court, achieving a career-high world ranking of 92 in 1986. As such, he was one of the most successful South African players of his era.
In addition, he is also the brother of another former professional tennis player, Kevin Moir. As siblings, the two enjoyed a competitive rivalry that helped to push each other to reach their full potential.
Both Barry and Kevin were highly respected and successful players in their own right during their careers.
46. Joseph Rahme
Joseph Edmund Rahme is a renowned tennis professional with a truly unique background. Born in South Africa, Rahme immigrated to the United States where he attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
At the university, Rahme enrolled in a business administration program and was a letterman in tennis from 1989 to 1992. Rahme’s talents on the court earned him the opportunity to compete professionally and he has since been a fixture on the ATP tour.
His experience and knowledge of the game have also earned him a position as a coach for many of the top players in the world. Rahme’s life story is one of perseverance and determination, and his accomplishments have made him an inspiration to aspiring tennis players everywhere.
47. Howard Joffe
Howard Joffe is a prominent figure in the tennis world. He is a South African coach and former professional player with a long-standing career in both roles. Growing up in Johannesburg, South Africa, Howard Joffe was passionate about the game from an early age.
He began playing competitively at the age of 16 and quickly rose to become one of the best players in the country. His professional career spanned over two decades and saw him reach a peak ranking of 8th in the world.
He played in a number of international tournaments, including the French Open and Wimbledon, and represented South Africa at the Davis Cup. After retiring from professional play, Howard Joffe focused his efforts on coaching.
He has worked with a number of South African players, helping them to reach their full potential and achieve success on the court. Howard Joffe is widely respected in the South African tennis community, both for his impressive accomplishments as a player and his successful coaching career.
He is credited with helping to develop the next generation of South African players, providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful. His legacy in the tennis world is sure to last for many years to come.
Conclusion
Overall, South Africa has produced some of the best tennis players in the world.
From the greats like Kevin Anderson, Wayne Ferreira, and Amanda Coetzer, to the rising stars like Lloyd Harris and Kgothatso Montjane, South African tennis players have proven to be some of the strongest players in the sport.
They have consistently proven to be a force to be reckoned with in the international tennis scene. South Africa is a proud nation that is home to some of the best tennis players in the world..
