Gustavo Kuerten, one of the greatest tennis players in history, became the second Latin American to reach World No. 1. Throughout his career, he defeated legends like Pete Sampras, Roger Federer, and Andre Agassi.
Undoubtedly, one of the most influential tennis players in Latin America, especially in Brazil, is Gustavo Kuerten. Widely regarded as the best tennis player from this region, Kuerten made history as the second Latin American player to reach the world’s No. 1 ranking. He earned recognition for his victories over tennis legends like Roger Federer, Pete Sampras, and Andre Agassi—three of the most iconic players in the sport’s history.
Kuerten turned professional in 1995, and it quickly became clear that he was destined for greatness. Just two years after entering the pro circuit, he made waves by capturing his first Roland Garros title, an achievement that stunned reporters and the tennis world alike.
However, the immense fame and expectations that came with his success began to take their toll in 1998. Kuerten suffered a setback, losing to Marat Safin at Roland Garros. Even Brazilian journalists left France feeling disheartened by the defeat. The pressure he faced, which had been building from the outset of his career, wasn’t always the motivating force it was made out to be.
Despite this difficult setback, Kuerten remained determined. In 1999, he bounced back and broke into the ATP Top 5. That same year, he claimed two ATP Masters 1000 titles in Monte Carlo and Rome, bringing him closer to the No. 1 spot in the world.
In 2000, Kuerten achieved the pinnacle of his career by reaching the No. 1 ranking after winning Roland Garros, the ATP World Tour Finals, and the ATP Masters 1000 in Hamburg. Though he didn’t fare as well in the other Grand Slam events, failing to advance past the third round, his dominance on the clay courts cemented his place among tennis’ elite.