Tennis is full of flashy winners, fierce competitors, and electric personalities—but earning true respect takes more than just trophies. It takes class in defeat, humility in victory, and the kind of consistency that makes fans and peers nod in admiration.
From iconic legends to quietly consistent workhorses, these are the tennis players whose names come with an automatic level of respect. They’ve earned the admiration of fellow players, commentators, and fans alike—and they didn’t need any trash talk to do it.
20. Jo-Wilfried Tsonga
Tsonga had the rare ability to light up a match without ever acting like he was above it. His sportsmanship and charisma made him beloved, even when he wasn’t the last man standing.
19. Victoria Azarenka
Azarenka brings a competitive fire, but she’s also one of the tour’s most genuine voices. She speaks her mind, lifts others up, and has aged into one of the sport’s most admired veterans.
18. Juan Martín del Potro
Del Potro battled through injury after injury, and never once used it as an excuse. Everyone rooted for him—not just because he was great, but because he was gracious.
17. Simona Halep
Halep earned every bit of her success through grit, hard work, and unshakeable humility. She never made it about flash, just about fight.
16. Andy Roddick
Roddick may have been loud, but he was also deeply respected for his honesty and leadership. Even in the shadow of Federer, he carried himself with integrity.
15. Ashleigh Barty
Barty walked away from the sport on top, and somehow, everyone just nodded and said “good for her.” Her calm demeanor and all-court excellence made her a favorite among fans and peers.
14. David Ferrer
Ferrer was never the flashiest guy on court, but nobody outworked him. He showed up, gave everything, and let his racket do the talking.
13. Petra Kvitová
Kvitová’s comeback after a life-altering injury only deepened the admiration she already commanded. She’s proof that strength and kindness can go hand in hand.
12. Lleyton Hewitt
Hewitt was fiery, sure, but he always respected the game and those who played it. His passion never crossed the line into arrogance, which made his relentlessness admirable.
11. Stan Wawrinka
Wawrinka’s late-blooming success was met with near-universal praise. He let his game do the talking and always gave full credit to those who beat him.
10. Justine Henin
Henin played with precision and poise, and never seemed to chase attention off the court. Her game was beautiful, and her demeanor earned nods of approval everywhere she went.
9. Kei Nishikori
Nishikori was a trailblazer for tennis in Asia and always carried himself with class. Win or lose, he kept it respectful and gave fans a reason to cheer.
8. Kim Clijsters
Clijsters was beloved not just for her talent, but for how kind and approachable she always seemed. She made elite tennis look like a family-friendly activity.
7. Tomas Berdych
Berdych rarely made headlines, and that was part of why people respected him. He was consistent, professional, and never one to stir up drama.
6. Venus Williams
Venus changed the game and did it with unshakeable grace. She paved the way for so many without ever needing the spotlight to validate her legacy.
5. Carlos Alcaraz
Still early in his career, Alcaraz already carries himself like a seasoned pro. He plays with joy, treats opponents with respect, and makes people excited about the sport’s future.
4. Rafael Nadal
Nadal is the definition of respectful warrior. He competed like a lion but talked like a monk—always giving credit, always humble, always admired.
3. Roger Federer
Federer made tennis look easy but never acted like it was beneath him. His elegance, generosity, and grace built a legacy far bigger than just the trophies.
Read More: 15 Most Even-Tempered Tennis Stars of All Time
2. Serena Williams
Serena’s dominance never came at the cost of dignity. She empowered generations, spoke her truth, and carried herself like the icon she is.
Read More: 15 Tennis Players Who Carried Their Ego Like a Trophy Case
1. Novak Djokovic
Djokovic might’ve been polarizing early on, but he’s earned deep respect through his relentless greatness and maturity. Love him or not, his dedication and growth have won over even the most stubborn critics.
Read More: When Serena and Djokovic Made Tennis Feel Like Live Theater
