Top 5 oldest Grand Slam winners in tennis history

In the dynamic world of tennis, where youth often steal the spotlight, a remarkable shift has emerged. Seasoned players, defying age expectations, continue to excel on the grand stage of Grand Slam tournaments. The conventional belief that tennis prowess peaks in the 18–30 age range is challenged by a select few who defy this norm, proving that experience can triumph over youthful vigor.

The physical demands of the sport intensify during prestigious events like the Grand Slams, yet these exceptional athletes, well into their 30s or 40s, have not only endured but triumphed. This list explores the remarkable achievements of the five oldest tennis players to clinch a Grand Slam title since the Open Era began in 1968.

Let's look at the top five oldest Grand Slam winners in tennis history:

5. Serena Williams (35 years, 4 months, and 2 days) 

At 35 years, 4 months, and 2 days old, Serena Williams etched her name as the 5th oldest singles player to secure a Grand Slam title at the Australian Open 2017. Her relentless dominance in the sport set the stage for this anticipated feat, following her Wimbledon triumph in 2016.

Down under, she surpassed expectations, facing her sister Venus Williams in the final and emerging victorious with a 6-4, 6-4 scoreline, claiming her seventh Australian Open title. Notably, Williams achieved this milestone without dropping a set throughout the seven rounds, adding a remarkable chapter to her illustrious singles career.

4. Rafael Nadal (35 years, 11 months, and 19 days)

At the age of 35 years, 11 months, and 19 days, Rafael Nadal etched his name into tennis history as the fourth oldest player to secure a Grand Slam singles title. The revered 'King of Clay' added another chapter to his legendary career at the French Open 2022. Nadal's unparalleled dominance on the clay courts, particularly at Roland Garros, has solidified his status as a tennis icon.

Remarkably, he claimed his 22nd Grand Slam victory by defeating formidable opponents like Casper Ruud, Alexander Zverev, and Novak Djokovic. This achievement not only underscores Nadal's enduring excellence but also highlights his resilience as the fourth oldest player to triumph in a Grand Slam singles event.

3. Novak Djokovic (36 years, 3 months, and 19 days)

At 36 years, 3 months, and 19 days old, Novak Djokovic etched his name into tennis history at the US Open 2023, becoming the third oldest player to secure a Grand Slam singles title. Despite his age, Djokovic's court agility remains astounding, showcasing no signs of slowing down. His triumphant 2023 campaign saw him clinch three Grand Slam victories, narrowly missing a clean sweep due to Carlos Alcaraz's heroic Wimbledon performance.

In New York, Djokovic faced a grueling battle, especially in a hard-fought second set lasting an impressive hour and 45 minutes. Yet, he emerged victorious, securing the title in straight sets. As 2024 approaches, Djokovic's relentless pursuit of further titles positions him to ascend even higher on this prestigious list.

2. Roger Federer (36 years, 5 months, and 7 days)

At the age of 36 years, 5 months, and 7 days, Roger Federer, the tennis icon, achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the second-oldest player to secure a Grand Slam singles title. The stage for this accomplishment was set at the Australian Open in 2018, where Federer, already celebrated as one of the sport's greatest, continued to captivate fans with his enduring prowess.

In a gripping five-set battle, he faced challenges from Marin Cilic but emerged triumphant, claiming the trophy with a 6-1 victory in the decisive set. This victory showcased Federer's hunger for success in his thirties and solidified his status as an age-defying tennis legend.

1. Ken Rosewall (37 years, 1 month, and 24 days)

At the age of 37 years, 1 month, and 24 days, Ken Rosewall etched his name into tennis history as the oldest player ever to secure a Grand Slam singles title. During the 1972 Australian Open, Rosewall showcased his enduring skill, winning the championship on his home turf.

Though not as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, Rosewall's tennis prowess, highlighted by his potent backhand, propelled him to a total of eight Grand Slam victories. His triumph in Australia stands out as a testament to the longevity of his career and the exceptional feat of winning a major at an age when many players have long retired from the singles competition.