Ranking of the highest paid tennis players in 2025: who’s making millions on the court

Tennis is a theatre of struggle, where every racket becomes a weapon and the court becomes a battlefield. Women in sport write history with their strokes, turning balls into projectiles and games into emotional battles. Among the title-winning players are those whose victories have defined the face of world tennis. Every era knows its champions, but some names remain eternal. Their contributions are not only records, but also changes in playing style, marketing and fitness.

The most famous female tennis players are a symbol of tenacity, elegance and strength of character. Their careers span decades and their legacies continue to inspire new players. When compiling the rankings, we took into account titles, style of play, and impact on the industry.

Legends of women’s tennis: who has made history on the court

The most famous female tennis players have travelled a thorny path from youthful ambition to universal recognition. Their professional rise is not just a collection of trophies, but a powerful influence on sports culture. Women have written their names in history not only through the awards they have won, but also through their individual style, innovative strategies, and unconventional approaches. What defines “legendary” status? Is it the number of titles won, the nation’s love, the significant contribution to the evolution of tennis? Or is it something more?

How greatness is measured: the criteria for success in tennis

There are several of them:

1. Number of titles: The most objective indicator is the number of Grand Slam tournament wins. For example, Serena Williams has won 23 titles and Steffi Graf became the first player to win a Golden Slam in a single year.
2. WTA ranking: Throughout their careers, titled female athletes compete for the top of the world rankings. Long dominance is a sign of stability and exceptional skill.
3. Court surface: Great female champions are equally successful on grass, hard court and dirt. Flexibility of style is one of the main characteristics of the best tennis players in the world.
4. Impact on the industry: Changing techniques, marketing, new approaches in training. For example, Maria Sharapova has brought a flamboyant commercial success to the sport, signing million-dollar contracts with brands.

List of the most titled female tennis players in history

The world will always remember these names:

1. Martina Navratilova – winner of 167 WTA titles, dominated tennis for two decades. Known for her outstanding backhand, which became her trademark. Her versatility allowed her to win on all surfaces and her physical conditioning made her virtually unbeatable.
2. Steffi Graf – 22 Grand Slam titles. The only tennis player to win a Golden Slam (four Grand Slam tournaments + Olympic gold in one season). Her aggressive style of play and speed have brought numerous victories.
3. Serena Williams – 23 wins at Grand Slam tournaments. This makes her the most famous tennis player of all time. She was characterised by her incredible hitting power, powerful forehand and phenomenal stamina.
4. Maria Sharapovais the only Russian to win a career Grand Slam. Her style of play was characterised by aggressiveness and tactical forethought. And her marketing success made her the most recognisable face of tennis.
5. Margaret Court is the record holder in the number of Grand Slam titles (24 titles). She had a unique serving technique and the ability to adapt to any opponent. This helped her achieve unprecedented success.

Why tennis players become iconic personalities

The most famous female tennis players go beyond sport to become icons of style, marketing, and cultural change. Their influence is felt in sports performance, fashion, advertising and even social movements. Their lifestyle and behaviour on and off the court shape the perception of modern athletes, setting trends and new standards. The secret of their victories lies not only in their personality, charisma and style, but also in their ability to use their image to influence the world.

Factors of popularity: what makes a tennis player a legend:

1. Style of play: The more colourful and unconventional the technique, the more memorable. For example, Serena Williams’ aggressive forehand became a symbol of women’s tennis. She demonstrated a powerful serve, an attacking style of play and incredible physical fitness. Her strokes surpassed the power of many male athletes, making her a model for future generations.
2. Charisma and image: Maria Sharapova brought elegance and commercial success, becoming a generational icon. She used her looks, competent PR and unique style of play to transcend sport. Her recognisable scream during her shots became an integral part of matches. Advertising contracts have turned Maria into a true icon of global marketing.
3. Scandals and dramas: Stories of successes and failures, doping investigations and personal conflicts increase media exposure. The most famous female tennis players have often faced pressure and criticism, but were able to come out of difficult situations victorious. For example, Sharapova after the doping scandal was able to return to tennis, proving the strength of character.
4. Social activism: Many tennis players are actively involved in charity work, feminist movements and environmental initiatives. Martina Navratilova is a prime example of an athlete who has fought for LGBT rights and equality in sport, openly expressing her position.
5. Fashion Trends: The clothes and style of female athletes are becoming iconic. Steffi Graf changed the idea of sports outfits, while Serena Williams brought extravagant outfits that emphasised individuality to tennis.

Legendary tennis players are not just champions, but personalities that shape public opinion, set trends and inspire millions of fans around the world.

Conclusion

The most famous female tennis players are more than just athletes. Their names epitomise eras. There are no random victories in the world of tennis. Behind every title is hard work, overcoming obstacles and continuous improvement. Today, tennis is experiencing a new wave, but the place of women’s tennis legends will forever remain in history.

Table tennis is an art that requires speed, agility and tactics. The story began in England at the end of the 19th century, when it was called “ping pong”, and since then the game has conquered the world, from European parlours to Asian sports arenas. The direction is captivating not only because of its dynamism, but also because of how every element in it – from the stance to the serving technique – matters. Understanding the rules of table tennis will not only help you play better, but truly enjoy every moment at the table.

The basic rules of the game

They concern the playing area, points and scoring system, use of the racket. Let’s take a closer look.

Playing area

The table tennis table measures 2.74 metres long by 1.525 metres wide and 76 cm high. A 15.25 cm high net divides the table in half, creating a barrier to successful attacks and clever strategies. The playing area must be large enough for players to move freely and make accurate shots. This is important, especially in professional matches where every movement decides the outcome of the game. The basic rules of table tennis prescribe strict dimensions to ensure the same conditions for all players.

Points and scoring systems

There is a unique scoring system: each draw brings one point, and a game is usually played to 11 points. If the score reaches 10:10, play continues until one player wins by two points. Interestingly, professionals often play five to seven games per match, while amateurs prefer to limit themselves to three. These standards make the process both dynamic and fair, which helps keep interest and tension high throughout the match.

How to play the racquet correctly

The correct racket grip is the basis of success. There are two basic types of grip: European (“hammer handle”) and Asian (“feather”). How to hold a table tennis racket correctly depends on the player’s style. The former allows you to control powerful strokes from both sides, while the latter is better suited for fast play and change of pace. Most beginners prefer to start with the European grip as it provides more intuitive control and stability.

Table Tennis Serving Rules

The serve is not just a moment to start a game, it is a fundamental tactical element. A player must hold the ball in the open palm of his hand, throw it up to a height of at least 16cm and hit it so that it first touches his side of the table and then the opponent’s side. The rules require that the ball must always be visible to the opponent, otherwise it is an offence.

Types of serves and their tactical significance

There are many variations of serves:

1. Short: The ball barely goes over the net and falls close to the edge of the opponent’s table. Such a serve makes it difficult to hit back and forces the opponent to be accurate.
2. Long: The ball flies deep into the opponent’s side, creating space for strong attacking shots. This serve makes it difficult to react and forces the opponent to make quick decisions.
3. Side Spin serve: The ball has a side spin, which makes its trajectory unpredictable. This is especially effective when the opponent is not prepared for an unexpected change of direction.
4. Top-spin serves: The ball flies with top spin, causing it to bounce quickly upon contact with the table, making it difficult for the opponent to hit back.

For example, a short serve with a strong spin can be a real challenge for the opponent, forcing him to get closer to the table and thus creating an opportunity for further attack. An impeccable knowledge of the rules of table tennis allows you to vary your tactics and change the tempo of the battle in unexpected ways.

Serving errors and how to avoid them

Many beginners often make typical mistakes such as incorrect hand position, too weak of a toss or not seeing the ball to the opponent. To avoid such mishaps, it is important to practise accuracy and control. Constant practice is the key to a confident serve that complies with all the rules of table tennis.

Table Tennis Techniques

The two most important strokes are the forehand and backhand. The forehand is performed when the ball is on the same side as the player’s working hand, and the backhand is performed on the opposite side. Table tennis technique requires precise control over every movement so that the strokes are accurate and varied. It is important not only to learn the basic strokes, but also to be able to change them depending on the situation on the table.

Moving around the table: dexterity makes all the difference

Moving around the table correctly is also a part of success. Players must be able to change positions quickly to be ready to hit. The basic rules of table tennis prescribe not only accurate strokes, but also the ability to react in time to the opponent’s actions. Practice includes exercises on movement and position control.

Tactics and strategies: how to outplay your opponent

To outplay your opponent, you need to use not only technique but also strategy. Important tactical points:

1. Rotation: The use of different rotations (topspin, side spin) can confuse the opponent, making his punches more difficult and forcing him to make quick decisions.
2. Change of pace: Constant change of speed, alternation of fast and slow strokes breaks the opponent’s habitual rhythm and can force him to make mistakes.
3. Unexpected change of direction: The ability to suddenly change the direction of the shot creates a significant advantage, because the opponent is difficult to predict in advance where the ball will fly.
4. Playing against your opponent’s weaknesses: Identifying your opponent’s weaknesses (e.g. an unsure backhand) and targeting these areas helps to maximise your opponent’s weaknesses.

Table tennis technique combined with proper tactics can turn even the most difficult opponent into a vulnerable target.

Penalties and mistakes in table tennis

Beginning players often make mistakes that are easy to correct with experience and practice. Incorrect stance, underpowered strokes or a too predictable serve – these reduce the chances of success. It is important to train not only technique, but also psychological stability. And, of course, you need to know the rules of table tennis perfectly.

Penalties and their consequences

Violations of the rules result in the loss of points. For example, a serve in which the ball is not thrown at the correct height is considered an error and results in a penalty. The latter in table tennis includes the loss of a game, which can be decisive in a tense match. Strict rules and adherence to them make the competition fair and exciting.

Conclusion

Learning the rules of table tennis is the first step on the road to mastery. Mastering technique, reading your opponent’s game and using tactics correctly make this sport incredibly exciting and varied. Every element – from serving to moving around the table – plays a key role in achieving success. Practice and constant improvement will not only help you improve your skills, but you’ll also enjoy your game. Start practising today to take your game to the next level at the table tennis table tomorrow.