Russian · Moscow, Russia · Born 27 April 1986Sister of Marat Safin and the only sibling pair to both reach No. 1 in tennis.
Dinara Safina was born on 27 April 1986 in Moscow, Russia, and is the sister of 2000 US Open champion Marat Safin. She turned professional in 2000 and developed into one of the world's best players, reaching No. 1 in the world in 2009. She reached three Grand Slam finals — the 2008 Roland Garros and Australian Open 2009 and the 2009 Australian Open final — but never won a major. Known for her powerful baseline game and relentless fighting spirit, she and Marat are the only brother-sister pair to both have been ranked No. 1 in the world.
She became the first and only player to reach world No. 1 in tennis without winning a Grand Slam singles title.
Together with her brother Marat, they are the only brother and sister in tennis history to both have been ranked No. 1 in the world.
Did You Know?How They Played
Safina was known for her aggressive baseline game with powerful groundstrokes from both wings. She possessed exceptional mental toughness and fighting spirit, often winning matches through determination and consistency rather than overpowering shot-making.
Lasting Impact
Safina's achievement of reaching world No. 1 without a Grand Slam title remains unique in tennis history and sparked debate about the ranking system.
Career Honours
- Roland Garros Finalist 2008
- Australian Open Finalist 2009
- Roland Garros Finalist 2009
Russian Athletes