Navratilova Unfiltered on the GOAT Debate: "Steffi Graf Picks Me, So Who Am I to Argue?"

Arthur Millot

le 17/04/2025 à 19h06

1 min to read

Court Evert Graf Navratilova Williams

Williams, Graf, Court, Navratilova: The debate over the greatest female player in history often rages on. With 24 Grand Slam titles, Margaret Court holds the top spot in major wins, followed by Serena Williams (23), Steffi Graf (22), Chris Evert (18), and Martina Navratilova (18).

In an interview with *The Tennis Gazette*, the former Czechoslovak player, who became a U.S. citizen in 1981, shared her thoughts on the GOAT debate in women's tennis:

"Am I the greatest player to have ever played this game? It would be hard to say no. I feel that at my best, I was better than all the other players I faced because my game was more complete.

I prepared better than anyone, I knew what needed to be done, and I had the ability to do it. I was as fast and as strong as anyone. I had more variety in my shots and was a better athlete than those on the tour.

Overall, my body of work speaks for itself. The records—many of them came because I played for a long time, but it’s the combination of quality and quantity. Grand Slams? Yes, Steffi Graf won more, but in my era, they weren’t as emphasized.

You know, Steffi Graf says I’m the greatest of all time, so who am I to argue, right?"