Steffi Graf: Tennis Legend, Golden Slam & Life Story

Stefanie Maria 'Steffi' Graf, born on June 14, 1969, in Mannheim, is celebrated as one of the greatest athletes in sports history.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Steffi Graf, with 22 Grand Slam singles titles and over 900 match wins, is one of the greatest tennis players of all time. She remains the only player, male or female, to achieve the coveted 'Golden Slam' - winning all four Grand Slam tournaments and an Olympic gold medal in a single calendar year (1988). Graf's impact on the game is undeniable, and she has continued to be involved in the sport through coaching and playing Pickleball.

Why it matters

Steffi Graf's achievements, including her record-breaking 377 weeks at the world No. 1 ranking, cement her legacy as one of the greatest athletes in sports history. Her success and humanitarian work have inspired generations of tennis players and fans.

The details

Graf's father, Peter Graf, recognized and nurtured her talent from a young age. She turned professional in 1982 and quickly ascended the ranks, reaching No. 6 in the world in 1985 and winning her first Grand Slam title at the French Open in 1987. The following year, 1988, was a historic one for Graf, as she became the only player to achieve the 'Golden Slam.' Throughout the 1990s, she continued to dominate, securing numerous titles and repeatedly returning to the top of the world rankings.

  • Steffi Graf was born on June 14, 1969, in Mannheim.
  • She turned professional in 1982 at the age of 13.
  • In 1987, she won her first Grand Slam title at the French Open.
  • In 1988, she achieved the 'Golden Slam' by winning all four Grand Slam tournaments and the Olympic gold medal in the same calendar year.
  • In 1999, she won her final Grand Slam title at the French Open before announcing her retirement.

The players

Steffi Graf

A German former professional tennis player who is considered one of the greatest athletes in sports history, with 22 Grand Slam singles titles and over 900 match wins.

Peter Graf

Steffi Graf's father, who recognized and nurtured her tennis talent from a young age.

Andre Agassi

Steffi Graf's husband, a former US tennis star, with whom she has two children and is involved in various charitable endeavors.

Jaden Gil Agassi

The son of Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi, who is pursuing a successful baseball career, even playing for the German national team in 2025.

Jaz Elle Agassi

The daughter of Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi, who is building a following on social media with lifestyle content.

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What’s next

In 2025, Steffi Graf was officially honored as the 'Best Tennis Player of All Time'.

The takeaway

Steffi Graf's remarkable career, marked by her unprecedented 'Golden Slam' and her continued involvement in the sport through coaching and playing Pickleball, solidifies her status as a true legend of tennis and an inspiration to athletes and fans alike.