Bjorn Borg

Björn Borg is a Swedish former world No. 1 tennis player. Known for his cool demeanor, extraordinary athleticism, and relentless baseline play, he achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 1 and is often regarded as one of the greatest tennis players in the history of the sport.

Borg's most significant accomplishments came at the Grand Slam tournaments, where he won 11 Grand Slam titles -- six at the French Open between 1974 and 1981 and five consecutive at Wimbledon from 1976 to 1980, a record at the time. His ability to excel on both grass and clay courts underscored his versatility and exceptional skill. Borg's rivalry with American player John McEnroe, especially their epic 1980 Wimbledon final, is one of the most storied in tennis history, highlighting Borg's resilience and competitive spirit.

Borg's playing style was characterized by his powerful topspin groundstrokes, exceptional footwork, and incredible stamina. His two-handed backhand and ability to grind out long rallies made him a formidable opponent. Borg's mental toughness and icy composure earned him the nickname "Ice Man," and his ability to stay calm under pressure was a significant factor in his success. Off the court, Borg's good looks and charismatic personality made him a global icon, propelling the sport's growing popularity during the 1970s and early 1980s. As a result, the professional tour became more lucrative, and in 1979 he was the first player to earn more than one million dollars in prize money in a single season.

Despite Borg's extraordinary success, his career was relatively short-lived. He retired from professional tennis in 1983 at the age of 26, at the peak of his powers, a decision that shocked the tennis world.